Fix for ignition lock. Now it pops back out!, Like it's supposed to. Options

[Bob L.]

For starters this is for a 73 ignition lock, other years can vary.

While fiddling with my ignition switch (electrical portion) I realized that when pulling the key out the cylinder would stick in, preventing the steering wheel lock from engaging. It pulls itself in automatically when inserting and turning the key. I kept having to jiggle the key and try to pull the cylinder to get it to release and pop back out to it's normal position (when no key is in it).

What I found is that a ridge built up (probably from friction) at the ledge ("A" in first pic) where a guide pin ("B" in second pic) needs to slide over and allow the cylinder to pop out.




The fix is simple. Just file down the ridge "A" to a smooth surface again allowing the cylinder to slip out from under the sprung pin. This has already been done in the pic. A touch of lube and it's like butter.

I didn't think to take a before pic as I didn't realize I was fixing it till I was done. I was on autopilot? It probably wouldn't have been very useful anyway.

I hope this is useful for others, as your knowledge has helped me.

[mrbubblehead]

bookmarked. mine is doing the same thing. thanks for the tutorial. this thread should go to the classics.