Ignition Lock Problem on my '73

[Timothy K.]

I had my key buzzer switch replaced in my Tilt/Tele steering column. I believe I also had an NOS cyl replaced as well which I had recoded (it was about two years ago and I've just gotten around to re-installing the column. Everything seemed OK, the buzzer works as it should, the steering wheel locks, however the key seemed difficult to turn to the start/ run position at first but with a little graphite, it worked smoothy. HOWEVER, just to check, I tried to turn the key to the 'accessory' position and NG. I tried the usual stuff, jiggling the key etc but nothing.....
Any ideas concerning my next step ?
Thanks,
Tim (26883)

[Paul D.]

Re: Ignition Lock Problem on my '73

Timothy, did you happen to test the column before installing in the car? Is it possible something happened during installation? At this point, my first test would be to loosen the actual switch mounted to the column and see if the lock cylinder turns freely and the rod and rack are moving freely. Did you replace the switch? I have had new switches that seemed too tight (in other vehicles). Chip.

[Timothy K.]

Re: Ignition Lock Problem on my '73

Hey Chip-
I thought I did, I know I checked the the key operation to the start / run position and it checked out but may not have tested the accessory position. It was so long ago, I can't remember. I'll check the switch but I didn't have it replaced. The re-installation seemed to go fine. The only thing replaced were the key buzzer and the lock cylinder. I'll check it out next weekend when I return from my travels this week and thanks.
Tim.

[Jim S.]

Re: Ignition Lock Problem on my '73

Just a short tip. It is best if you remove the column from the car to verify that the ignition switch and ignition lock cylinder are synchronized.

There are actually 5 ignition switch and lock cylinder positions from full CW the full CCW position; START, RUN, OFF, OFF-LOCK, & ACCESSORY. Remove the ignition switch from the steering column jacket. You will note that there is a rod extending from the steering column head to a slider on the underside of the switch itself. Remove the switch from the rod. Use a small allen wrench or tool to reach into the slider and move it until you feel the spring return when you are in the extreme START position. Now move the slider two detent positions from START. Your switch is now in the OFF position. Place the steering column lower lever in the full DOWN position (about 4 o'clock as viewed from the driver seat). Now rotate your ignition key CCW from the full CW position until it stops. The steering column is now in the OFF position as well. Carefully reattach the switch to the rod and then the switch to the steering column jacket. Your column and switch should be correctly synchronized.
Jim

[Timothy K.]

Re: Ignition Lock Problem on my '73

Thanks Jim - sorry for the delay in response. I guess I'll work up the energy to take the steering column back out....again...
Again, thanks, it's appreciated-
Tim