66 Ignition Switch

[Timothy B.]

I want to remove the pig tail (wiring harness) from the ignition switch. There are 3 prongs that hold pig tail to switch that will not release. What am I doing wrong.
Tim

[John H.]

Re: 66 Ignition Switch

I want to remove the pig tail (wiring harness) from the ignition switch. There are 3 prongs that hold pig tail to switch that will not release. What am I doing wrong.
Tim

Tim -

Squeeze the prongs so their barbs disengage from the lugs on the switch housing, and pull it straight off.

[Timothy B.]

Re: 66 Ignition Switch

John Hinckley (29964);589737]Tim -

Squeeze the prongs so their barbs disengage from the lugs on the switch housing, and pull it straight off.

[Timothy B.]

Re: 66 Ignition Switch

John
Thank you, I will try I have tried to pry and press, neither has worked.
There is so little space to work in.
Tim

[Edward J.]

Re: 66 Ignition Switch

Tim, disconnect the battery and use a small flat blade screw driver and pry the plastic carefully while releasing the tabs. It maybe possible that the plastic connector has been heated up enough the melt the plastic connector and is stuck to the prongs on switch.

[Wayne M.]

Re: 66 Ignition Switch

.....There is so little space to work in. ..

Tim -- you have to remove the ignition switch from the instrument cluster before removing the connector from the back of the switch. It will hang down, still held by the wiring, and you will then be able to insert small screw drivers or similar into the 3 ears on the switch case, then pull the plug off.

This new connector was added in 1965 (I think) as an anti-theft feature, for the very reasons that you are encountering.

P.S. to get the switch out of the dash, you'll have to remove the tumbler (with key) then unscrew the bezel. but first, remove the light bulb fixture that illuminates the keyhole before lowering the switch; you don't want to break the wire off, as this is shorter than the other terminal wires.

[Timothy B.]

Re: 66 Ignition Switch

Thank you for the suggestions. When I get this accomplished I will get back to you.

Tim