1972 ignition buzzer

[Timothy I.]

The ignition buzzer in my high-mileage '72 will sometimes buzz when I open the door, even after the key is removed. In the past when it has done that, re-inserting the key and wiggling it would always stop the buzzer. This morning when I got to work, it would just NOT go off. Fortunately, I have a battery cut-off switch, so I disconnected it so it wouldn't buzz all day and run down the battery. I'm not familiar with how the buzzer is switched. Is it likely that my ignition switch is worn out, or maybe just needs cleaning? Has anyone had a similar problem?

[Edward J.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

Tim, There is a plastic switch that commonly breaks from age it surely sounds like the problem, I have a tilt and tele. column and replaced this switch in my 72. both the tilt and fixed steering column have the same problems with switch.

[Russ S.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

Corvette Central part number 593064 for this switch. I would get it while it is available as it has been unavailable in the recent past and appears to now be in stock again. P.S. This part number is for tilt-tele. I don't think CC has the switch for non tele but check with them.

[Edward J.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

Russ, I believe that Corvette steering makes the switch for the tilt and tele. they started making them about 3 or 4 years ago. Not sure if that's who you are referring to.

[Gary R.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

I got one for my 72 T&T column 2 years ago when Corvette Steering in SC closed. This was the last one in stock. Not sure if they are sold elsewhere now, as mentioned they were gone for a while.

[Timothy I.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

Thanks to all for their responses. OK, here's a dumb question: Where exactly is the switch, and how do I get to it?

[Jim S.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

You didn't mention if you had a standard (non-adjustable) steering column or a T&T. Let's assume that you had a standard column.
Here is a pic of the switch in the standard column. The T&T column has a similar part but not exactly the same.

Jim

[Terry M.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

The Chevrolet Chassis Overhaul Manual for your year has a step-by-step. Jim Shea posted a image from there. You may also need the appropriate year AIM with the ignition lock installation instructions in order to re-install the lock properly.

[Timothy I.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

Thanks Jim. I do have the standard column, and that's exactly what I needed. Terry, I do have the Chassis manual, but since it's not Corvette-specific, I didn't think it would be much help. (Guess I was wrong!) And I do have the AIM, but wasn't able to locate the switch. Thanks again to all who replied!

[Jim T.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

Timothy while you are awaiting for your new switch if your 1972 is just like my 1970 you can easily disconnect electrical power to the buzzer. It is located to the left of the brake master cylinder and you can just pull the plastic housed terminal from the relay. I did this to my 1970 many years ago to silence the buzzer.

[Jim S.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

In the latest Zip Products catalogue for the Corvette standard (non-adjustable) steering column.
SC-430 69-79 Key Warning Buzzer Switch ........... Call 804-746-2290
That usually isn't a good sign.
Jim

[Rich C.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

A long shot, but if you have a cooperative parts man, have him do a dealer search for the old part #. I found a Buick dealer in the middle of nowhere (kinda like where I live) that had a N.O.S. one in the Saginaw bag for my tilt column. Charged me all of $7.20! I bought a whole bunch of discontinued steering column parts this way. I basically bought any part that I thought could wear out! I'm guessing this MAY be a common part to several GM car lines. I'm sure Jim Shea would be able to answer that.


1973 LS-4 454 coupe owned 24 years
1996 LT-4 Collector Edition coupe owned 13 months
Sierra Nevada Torpedo IPA-currently on tap!

[Joe L.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

Thanks Jim. I do have the standard column, and that's exactly what I needed. Terry, I do have the Chassis manual, but since it's not Corvette-specific, I didn't think it would be much help. (Guess I was wrong!) And I do have the AIM, but wasn't able to locate the switch. Thanks again to all who replied!

Tim------


The part you need was GM #7804414. GM discontinued this switch some time ago but I'll never figure out why. It has extremely wide application among MANY GM cars for about 20 model years. Plus, it's an often-needed part. It is reproduced. I don't know what the quality of the reproductions is but they are out there.

[Jim S.]

Re: 1972 ignition buzzer

I have a fairly recent Corvette Central catalogue. 800-345-4122 It lists:
593084 69-78 Key Warning Buzzer Switch - Except T&T 9.95
From the description this should be the switch that you require.
Jim