'69 Ignition Switch

[hdflh67]

Can someone recommend a good source for info on how to replace my ignition switch? Standard steering column. Any tips or thoughts would be appreciated! I don't have a clue where to start on this one! THANKS!

 

[Mike Carter]

Ignition Switch or Key? Either way, Haynes or other comparable manual has good basic description of replacement method.

 

[vigman]

69 has the key in the column ...

Correct?

The 68 was on the dash?

Vig~

 

[Bob Yates]

Here goes.... If you are replacing the key switch..... Frist remove ground cable from battery.... Remove the horn button.... remove the steering wheel 7/8" nut. Using a steering wheel puller remove wheel. Here's where it gets hairy. Remove the lock plate by pushing down on it to expose the snap ring around the steering shaft. Take a small screw driver and work it up the shaft towards you. This is easier to do if you have a lock plate removing tool. I don't have one so I use a wooden hammer handle an push with my chest while getting the snap ring out of it's grove. Notice that the locking plate only goes on the shaft one way and make sure you put it back with the right side up. Next undo the turn signal wiring harness from under the dash. It clips to the steering column tube.NOTE: If you have A/C you have to remove the duct thats there. Now we're back up on top at the turn signal switch . Remove the screw in the turn signal lever and remove lever. Remove the hazard flasher button. Some have screws in the center some just screw off with studs in them. Next remove the three screws that hold the turn signal switch in. When they are out pull the switch towards you pushing in on the hazard swiitch thats left to clear the housing. Just push it out of the way don't take it out all the way. Make sure the key is out and remove the key minder switch. It's that thing with the two copper strips sticking out of it. It just pulls out. If the key switch has never been replaced there is a thin strip of metal over the area where the release button for the switch. Take a screwdriver an punch it out then you can release the button and pull on the key switch at the same time and the switch should come out. Push the new switch in and put everything back in reverse. I hope this helps...... If it is the electric switch it is on top of the bottom of the steering colomun tube above the brake pedal. do the battery thing then remove the A/C duct if you have it . Remove the trim under the steering column and loen the collar on the steering column so you can get at the switch . There are two 5/16ths bolts that holds it on there is also a rod that comes from the key switch that Just slips in a slot in the switch just lift it off remove the wiring harness . Put everything back in reverse and you done note make sure you key switch is in the off position. Good luck

 

[Bob Yates]

Hey Vigman your right . Starting in 69 it moved to the column. I was a GM tech back then and went to the GM tech center to learn how to repair this area. It's funny but one of the problems with this system back then is still with it today. If you park on a small grade with the wheels turned just a little you can not turn the ignition key switch on. You have to take the pressure off the locking pin by trying to turn the steering wheel while turning the key. I've saved I don't know how many tow bills for people with that little bit of info but still there is more who get towed only to find it works when they get it to the repair shop. You take care....Bob Yates

 

[hdflh67]

Thanks to all. If you're looking for some good on-line info, I found this site: http://www.corvettefaq.com/steering.asp
Spring has sprung!