Can someone tell me how to remove the ignition switch? I am helping my GF return her grandfathers truck to running condition with hopes of a restoration once we get it running but the &*^% key has been lost and I need to take the tumbler to a locksmith.

 

Sure thing! First disconect the bat, then reach under the dash and push forward on the back side of the switch(where all the wires are), then turn the bezel counter clockwise, the bezel is the part where it says acc, start, run. Do not use pliers on the bezel like i did. if you push hard enough it will come off.

behind there you will find a bell and spring that holds everything in place.

 

If understand correctly, the key is lost and u want to remove the switch. Don't believe you can remove switch without the key, that is, the bezel secures the switch to the dash by the lock mechanism, or tumbler. May be able to salvage the switch if u carefully drill out the tumbler assembly by gradually working up in drill size, however, not only is the diag. of the drill bit critical but also the depth. Tried it on couple occasion, somewhat successful once but never worked correctly and eventually replaced the switch. U might check and see if there is a mobil locksmith, although, I have not found too many locksmiths who have the experience to work on 40 yr. old lock assemblys and suspect if u find any the travel time, labor, and parts may be close to what it would cost to replace the tumbler and switch.

To remove assembly, insert key and turn to accessory position. There is a small hole in the face of tumbler assembly and with a paper clip, or some thing simular, depress the pin and continue turning the key counter clockwise and key assembly will come out. To install, the key has to be in the same position as it was when removed, need to preload the tumbler, depressed and rotate assembly to the full counter clockwise position, then insert the assembly with the key and turn to the on position thus securing the tumbler to the switch.

Bill has explained how to install the switch assembly.

 

Thanks guys! If I understand correctly I may be SOL on getting a key made but I have a local locksmith that has been able to make keys for locked motorcycle luggage and vintage MC ignitions so I think if I can get it out he can make a key for it - we'll see.

On another note this looks like a place that I will be frequenting as I work on her truck. It is a sad affair but I am excited about getting it road worthy. While I have never undertaken a frame off auto/truck restoration I have done several motorcycles and I look forward to this project with her. I think this one is worth it - at least it is to her - she loved her grandfather and has fond memories of him taking her all over in it.

So thanks again!

 

I believe you would be better off to have a locksmith come out and make you a new key.

You can destroy the cylinder by drilling it out, replace it with a new one.

You can have the lock picked, turned to the left with a paper clip in the hole to horizontal and pull the cylinder out.

You can have a locksmith come out and make you a new key.

Those are your basic choices as I see them.



John

 

IMHO, suggest order replacement key assembly and switch asap, meantime, drill out the old lock mechanism using caution not to damage the dash, or bezel. Believe the switch runs around $30, and the key assembly around $15, and doubt a locksmith will travel to make repairs for less. Might want to check w/ Carolina Classics, Durham, NC, may save few buck on shipping.

 

i just bought a brand new switch for under 20$ at a local parts store

 

LOL...easiest fix for a replacement ignition switch...pull the door lock out and go to locksmith...these trucks were one key for the doors and ignition switch...codes on top of the door lock casing..

- cs65

 

Unless the switch or door locks have been replaced before, then the key might be different.

You guy's are right about the tumbler having to be removed first, I had mine apart so many times i finally took a file to the bezel and removed the flanges that hold it in.
i do have another bezel to replace it with.... one day.

 

but if the doors are original OR if you have the owners manual original to the truck or original purchase papers those all could have the key code on them...
Either way, pulling the door access panel (8 screws) is LOADS easier then mucking with a switch with no key if you dont have to...

- cs65

 

Out of the number of times topic has come up this is the first time I can recall the door lock being mentioned, it's called oldheimers, thanks for the heads up. Did not occur to me, guess over these past 37 plus years been fortunate not to have lost a key but have had to replace the key assembly or switch a couple times.

 

Yeah...but usually the threads been about replacing a bad switch vs a lost key...either way, door lock has the answer or the other sources I mentioned prior if the truck is lucky enough to still have them with it.


- cs65

 

you have to have a key to get the tumblers out of the s/w then with a paper clip and the key turned to acc the tumblers will come out

 

Can someone confirm the order of operations for removing the ignition cylinder, please? I inserted a straightened paper clip into the hole, inserted the key and turned to 'ACC' and try to pull, but it won't come out. I can feel the pin pushing against something spring loaded. but after many attempts, I still can't get it out.

Do I insert the key first and turn to 'ACC', and then insert the pin, or pin in first and then turn the key?

Thanks, David

 

key turn then pin push