Column Starter Switch

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Apr 9, 2015 | 02:19 PM

dnkensinger

Thread Starter

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Joined: Dec 2014

Posts: 233

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From: Buffalo

Column Starter Switch

Took apart my column to clean some things up - my ignition cylinder was sticking bad and degreasing the upper part of the column where the cylinder rotates didn't do anything. Turns out the starter switch itself was gummed up. Don't know how that happens. Anyways, it's all apart and what a b**ch to do!

It appears the switch is "adjustable", in that it can slide up and down the column. So my question is, do I have to set it just right for everything to work right, and if so, what's the proper procedure?

Thanks!

Apr 9, 2015 | 02:29 PM

Franklin2

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Joined: Jan 2001

Posts: 56,951

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From: Virginia

The new switches come with a pin tool that slides in a small hole in the switch. This sets the switch up for a certain position(I forget which one, probably "off") and then you hook it in the rod and tighten it down. Then remove the pin.

Apr 9, 2015 | 02:58 PM

Gary Lewis

FTE Legend

Joined: Jul 2010

Posts: 32,875

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From: Northeast, OK

Here's what the 1981 shop manual says:

When installing the ignition switch, both the locking mechanism at the top of the column and the switch itself must be in LOCK position for correct adjustment.
To hold the mechanical parts of the column in Lock position, move the shift lever into Park (with automatic transmission) or Reverse (with manual transmissions), turn the key to Lock position, and remove the key. New replacement switches, when received, are already pinned in Lock position by a metal shipping pin inserted in a locking hole the side of the switch.
Engage the acautator rod in the switch.
Position the switch on the column and install the retaining nuts, but do not tighten them.
Move the switch up and down along the column to locate the mid-position of rod lash, and then tighten the retaining nuts.
Remove the locking pin, connect the battery cable, and check for proper start in Park or Neutral. Also check to make certain the start circuit cannot be acuatated in the Drive and Reverse position.
Raise the steering column into position at instrument panel. Install steering column shroud.