Help with ignition switch removal

[Jeffrey S.]

Does anyone know how to take the ignition switch out of a 67 if you don't have a key. Thanks in advance Jeff.

[Peter L.]

Re: Help with ignition switch removal

Jeff - There are a several options on removing the ignition lock unit from the switch. (1) As you know, originally the door locks & the ignition lock cylinder unit operated with the same keys so if nothing has been changed you can remove a door panel & check the door lock case for a KEY NUMBER. It should be stamped on the side of the door lock case & then have a Locksmith make a key & that should operate the ignition switch lock cylinder & then remove it. (2) The Dealers, Locksmiths, & Auto Repossessors has a set of "Tryout" keys that were supposed to open 90% of the locks so you might find someone who has a set & try them or find a Locksmith who will do the job. (3) I have heard of some folks who have carefully cut the nut with a Dremel tool. (4) There are some other options, but those would probably ruin the lock cylinder unit &/or the switch. Good Luck, Pete

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: Help with ignition switch removal

Unfortunately I already removed the door cylinders and I had keys made but they won't work the ignition. Thanks for the reply. Jeff

[Gary B.]

Re: Help with ignition switch removal

Jeff,

Do you know for sure that the ignition lock is correct for '67 in that it accepts an A keyway key? That will be important to know if you can track down someone with a set of A keyway tryout keys as suggested by Pete. I have a set of tryout keys that work for Grv 15 keyway locks that were used up thru '66 GM cars, so those won't work for '67 or newer. Unfortunately for '67 and newer GM locks there are multiple sets of tryout keys that are needed for the different letter keyways, so it's very expensive to buy all the sets for the letter keyway locks. But they do exist. That's probably the only non-destructive way to get your ignition core out.

Gary

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: Help with ignition switch removal

Jeff,

Do you know for sure that the ignition lock is correct for '67 in that it accepts an A keyway key? That will be important to know if you can track down someone with a set of A keyway tryout keys as suggested by Pete. I have a set of tryout keys that work for Grv 15 keyway locks that were used up thru '66 GM cars, so those won't work for '67 or newer. Unfortunately for '67 and newer GM locks there are multiple sets of tryout keys that are needed for the different letter keyways, so it's very expensive to buy all the sets for the letter keyway locks. But they do exist. That's probably the only non-destructive way to get your ignition core out.

Gary

I'm pretty sure it's a 67 ignition as I have a 66 and the keys don't fit in the 67 cylinder, so on it goes I'm going to see if my nephew can pick the lock and remove the cylinder that way. I'll let everyone know how I make out , it could take a while. The good news is I fired the engine for the first time just a few minutes ago and after a few glitches it ran like a top. The body is off the frame and the frame is now complete with a great running motor so now I get to put the two pieces back together. All in all a great day. Thanks for your input. Jeff

[Gary B.]

Re: Help with ignition switch removal

Jeff,

Not to be a naysayer, but picking a side bar lock (which is what ignition and door locks are) is something that many professional locksmiths cannot do.

Gary