c-1 ignition removal
I have just removed my instrument cluster and all the gauges, the ignition switch is giving me a hard time. I have used a paper clip and key to release the bezel. The problem is the bezel work keep turning with a lot of pressure using vice grips. Have I done something wrong? The car is a 58. Thanks Susan
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Re: c-1 ignition removal
Susan
Are you having trouble getting the key part out of the bezel or the outer rim out of the dash cluster?
Terry
Terry -
Re: c-1 ignition removal
Hi Terry,
The outer bezel with notches that screws onto the switch will not move unless I force it with pliers. It's 1/2 way off, ut with force. I don't want to continue in case it wrecks the switch threads. SusanComment
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Re: c-1 ignition removal
Susan, there is a special tool that locates in the notches to "unscrew" the bezel. If you are careful you can also use a screw driver with some very ligh taps, but be careful not to damage the notch. Masking or adhesive tape works well on the screw driver blade. It sounds like it is partially "unscrewed" so it may be cross threading. If you can tighten it back, the reverse of unscrewing it, maybe you can determine if it is cross threaded. If you must use channel locks or pliers I would wrap the bezel in a shop rag, wash cloth, etc. so as not to mark the outer rim of the bezel. I worked on a friends a number of years ago and it was slightly cross threaded (2-3 threads) and I used a jewelers file and a points file to clean the threads well enough to remove it and put it back on.
I hope I interpreted your problem right. Good Luck!
SteveComment
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Re: c-1 ignition removal
Hi Steve,
I can reverse the bezel and start again, I did use a screw driver to loosen the bezel as it was not on tight. It almost seems like the bezel is out of round as it bogs down almost every half turn. Should I force it and carry on ? If it is cross threading as you suggest if I go back wont it keep turning on the cross threads? Thanks SusanComment
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Re: c-1 ignition removal
Susan
Spray a little WD40 on it and tighten back up then unscrew try this a few time to see if it loosens any. Sounds like Bubba put it on with channel locks and got the nut out of round. If you get it off and find that is the case a new nut is only $10.
TerryComment
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Re: c-1 ignition removal
Susan, I had the same problem with my 58 and ended up just getting a whole new unit, took mine in to a locksmith and he as well could not free it up, I believe he was able to use the casing but the guts were froze up, it's been a while so am guessing, got the parts from C.C. Thanks Brad.
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Re: c-1 ignition removal
Hi all, I took the ignition to a mechanic today in desperation and here is what I found out. The front of the ignition switch (where the key goes in) the divided chrome part is threaded. When you use the paper clip with the key in the start position it allows that part of the switch to turn and that is the part that needs to come off first. I have made a mess of the collar and will have to replace. I hope I did not damage the cylindar. Thanks to all who tried to help me. As an extra question does this sound like I have right lock? Has anyone else removed the lock the way I described?
Regards SusanComment
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Re: c-1 ignition removal
Hi Susan, mine was froze up just before the start position, when this happens take out old unit and throw it away, it can't be fixed and get a new one, my bezel was ok, just needed the guts but you may need everything now, better to get new than running around trying to fix what can't be fixed. These parts are cheap compared to what you will spend on that car anyway. Thanks Brad.
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