1960 console locking mechanism between seats

[Valeria H.]

The lock for the console between the seats is not working. After much angst I was able to open the console but the lock needs to be repaired. I can not find anyone who dually wants to take on a lock and a car removal.
I found someone who felt like they could repair the original lock if I could get it out of the car and take it to them. They are 1 1/2 hours away and I would not like driving the car there and I am certain they are not thirlled with possibily damaging an old car with the attempt of the removal of the lock. Don't you love these old cars!!!
Can anyone tell me how to remove the locking mechanism from the center console? There are several holes in the circular locking mechanism. Is this a clue?
Valeria

[John F.]

Re: 1960 console locking mechanism between seats

On the inside of the door, the lock should have a little hole in the locking mechanism. Take a paper clip and straighten out one end. Push this into the hole and it should release the whole guts inside. Important! Remember which way it came out. Should pop back in to reverse the procedure.
John

[John H.]

Re: 1960 console locking mechanism between seats

Valeria -

Here's a .pdf from Dave Zuberer that shows how to remove the lock cylinder. DO NOT re-install it upside-down, or you'll never get it out again (the little hole will be on the bottom where you can't get to it). The key inserts with the teeth pointed DOWN.

[Valeria H.]

Re: 1960 console locking mechanism between seats

Thanks to all for your input. I tried to release the locking mechanism tonight with a paperclip and it would not release. I will try tomorrow with a little larger prod. I am certain this is the original lock and has never been removed from the car.
Thanks for the attached article on the removal. I hope you do not have to hear back from me on this subject.
Thanks again for all your great wisdom.
Valeria

[Stewart A.]

Re: 1960 console locking mechanism between seats

Thanks John that's a A-Z way to show how to do things. Very informative will save for future reference. Stewy

[Mike M.]

Re: 1960 console locking mechanism between seats

If all else fails, just unscrew the hinge and send the door with the lock intact.
HaND

[Jimmy G.]

Re: 1960 console locking mechanism between seats

Can you bring it to the Carolinas Chapter Nuts and Bolts on 11/14??

[Stewart A.]

Re: 1960 console locking mechanism between seats

I'm not sure about unscrewing the hinge it's half a mission. I tried last week on mine and wasn't an easy job. Valeria if you are having trouble with the paper clip try unscrewing the chrome surround from the facia that is around the button. If you can get the chrome face off the lock will pop out and you can use the paper clip or sharp object easier if it's in front of you on the kitchen table ( when the wife is not home that is). I got my lock out that way. There must be a special tool that GM use to tighten the chrome dress ring that goes around the button. It has flat sides top and bottom on the chrome ring to tighten it ? The funny thing is once you get it to pop you will never forget how to do it again. Stewy

[Valeria H.]

Re: 1960 console locking mechanism between seats

Jimmy, Excuse me for my tardy reply but I was out of town this past weekend. Yes!!! I will be more than happy to bring the car to "nuts and bolts" on 11/14. My husband threw a kink in the mix today when he took my car out for a brief run and closed the compartment that I was working on trying to remove the cylinder from the casing. I had removed the tape that was keeping the compartment from locking enternally to try to loosen the cylinder and left it that way not knowing he might decide to take her out for a spin. I hope someone can help. It will be good to meet you all!!!
Valeria