Cannot remove key from ignition of 1970 Firebird Formula 400
Asked by Formula_Guy Aug 09, 2016 at 01:15 PM about the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
I have been restoring this car for 4 years, it is almost ready to drive. All of a
sudden, I cannot turn the ignition key back to lock to remove the key. I
removed the lock cylinder and it works fine outside the column, but when I
install it, the key will NOT turn to the lock position. it has worked fine recently,
any ideas?
8 Answers
Formula_Guy answered 8 years ago
Do you mean the key switch? because I took it out and it work fine with it out of the column but when i put it b ack in, the key won't come out, :<(
Formula_Guy answered 8 years ago
I have the steering wheel off and the blinker assembly too. I don't see a rod, is it inside the column? Sorry, I feel pretty stupid.
Formula_Guy answered 8 years ago
I will try that in the morning, thank you so much!!!
Formula_Guy answered 8 years ago
Good morning tennis shoes, I found the rod and switch, thank you so much sir. I took the switch off and lubed it good, it seems to work well, I moved the rod back and forth and it rotated the key switch easily, but when i put it all back together, it still will not release the key. Thoughts?
Formula_Guy answered 8 years ago
I took the switch off the rod and moved the rod up and down, which turned the key switch, but I STILL could not get the key to release, what am i doing wrong sir?
Formula_Guy answered 8 years ago
I have taken out the key and lock assembly and I CAN remove the key. I did not do anything with the ignition switch when I remove this. Could that be a part of the problem? I just CANNOT turn the key into the lock position when it is all together.
Formula_Guy answered 8 years ago
It IS a tilt wheel, I have not had a chance to look at the rack and pinion yet. I am OLD and have a bad back so I took yesterday off. I will check it out today. I can't tell you how much I appreciate all your help sir.
Formula_Guy answered 8 years ago
I have tried everything! It just will not go into the lock position, I would really love to talk directly to you to discuss this issue if you are willing, please e-mail me your phone number at became1@comcast.net my name is Jim