Ignition switch tumbler removal

[Jeffrey S.]

I have the cluster out for rehab and I need to remove the ignition switch . I put the key in / turn to acc. / put a small drill bit in the hole on the face if the tumbler / push in and I can feel the tension of the spring inside the switch but the tumbler does not come out . Am I missing something / any help will be appreciated . Thanks in advance . Jeff

[Don H.]

Re: Ignition switch tumbler removal

From John Hinckley back in 2007. --->
You need to turn the key fully counter-clockwise BEFORE you insert the paper clip in the hole; then push it in, turn the key counter-clockwise again, and it will turn further, then pop out.

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: Ignition switch tumbler removal

Thanks / That is probable what I did as I did get it off / I was just pushing the plunger with the key turned as I had done dozens of times and it came off . I'm not exactly sure what I did differently but it is out . Thanks for the reply. Jeff

[Gerald C.]

I need to remove the ignition switch and tumbler from a 1963 cluster that's out of the car. The only "problem" I have is that I do not have the key! Any suggestions?

Would a chevy dealer have a Master Key? Or is it wishful thinking that I could be that lucky.

[Gary B.]

I need to remove the ignition switch and tumbler from a 1963 cluster that's out of the car. The only "problem" I have is that I do not have the key! Any suggestions?

Would a chevy dealer have a Master Key? Or is it wishful thinking that I could be that lucky.

Gerald,

There is no such thing as a master key for C2 locks. There are sets of qty=64 “tryout keys”, but in my experience the odds are very low that one of those keys will operate the lock. I’ve used tryout keys about 10 times, with zero success.

If the glove box is original to the car it will have the key code stamped into the end or side of the push button. The push button needs to be removed from the lock case to see the key code.

Otherwise, original door looks will have the key code stamped into the periphery of the case. But you need to remove the door panels to see the numbers.

Finally, about 5% of spare tire locks have the key code stamped into the periphery of the lock core. Again, the core needs to be removed from the lock case to see the number. But 5%, or 1 out of 20, are not good odds.

Gary

[Gerald C.]

Gary,

I should have been more detailed in my explanation of my situation. I bought the cluster at a flea market and all I have is the cluster/ignition switch/tumbler without any access to any other keys from any other source for any keys.

Help!

[Gary B.]

Gary,

I should have been more detailed in my explanation of my situation. I bought the cluster at a flea market and all I have is the cluster/ignition switch/tumbler without any access to any other keys from any other source for any keys.

Help!

Gerald,

If you can’t find someone with a set of Groove 15 tryout keys (most old-school locksmiths should have a set, but the chances of those working are low in my opinion), I’m afraid you’re going to have to drill out the ignition core. I know of no other solution.

Gary

[Jeffrey S.]

Jeff,
Have you taken the lock to an "old time", reputable locksmith? I have found that a good locksmith can pick the lock and get the cylinder out. I have had spare tire cylinders removed without the key by a good one here in Detroit. Just a thought.
Jeff

[Tim L.]

Steve Walker who does key work and cuts keys can get the tumbler out if you want to send him the complete ignition switch. He does advertise in the Corvette Forum. I have used him and does great work. Let me know if you cannot find his contact information. Good luck!

[Jimmy G.]

Master Keys did exist for C2 but not 67 as I have a set (1935 - 1966). Any good locksmith should be able to pick the lock in 2 minutes