Chevy Ignition Help Needed...

One of the things I remember as a kid was the old Chevy ignition switches that had the part that came up around the key - too cool. I've been wanting one for my truck and the parts truck I just bought just happened to have one.

Now for the questions:

1. I found this thread about removing the cylinder for a '66: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=214560 but it doesn't cover the style with 2 holes in it like mine. I tried a paper clip in the top hole and I can feel something with spring tension but it didn't come out or continue to thread out. I can't really feel anything happening internally when trying the bottom hole. I wound up sawing the portion out of the dash to get the switch out (yeah, the rest of the dash is trash) and not ruin the switch. Anyone have further help?

2. When I get this cylnder out, can it be used with switches that have the "acc/off/on/start" positions instead of one with just "off/on"?

Thanks and happy holidays!

 

you need to have the key, or pick the lock, to get the cylinder out. The trick is to turn it (with the key) all the way counterclockwise, then stick the end of a big paper clip in the hole to press the springy thing, and turn it a bit more ccw to release the cylinder and pull it out.

If you don't have the key, you can try to pick the lock. It would be a lot easier to just buy a new replacement lock cylinder for a 61ish car...which is where that lock cylinder likely came from....since the 50s trucks did not use that design, they were flat.

 

If you have a collection of old GM keys, you might try them one might fit.

 

the part you like is called the tumbler. the tumbler wil fit different locks. you have to try some switches to see what works. again mr. squriel is dead on. ya got to have the key also. some peolpl that mess with old cars have a huge key ring with many different cuts . you moght get lucky.

 

Great tips and yes luckily, I do have the key. Stay tuned for the results!

 

Why not unscrew the bezel pull the piece off the dash metal & use the whole switch?

 

'cause you have to pull the inards out to "unscrew the bezel".

 

Send it to me I'll make keys and return it to you.
you pay frt and 2 keys.
pm me. I'm a retired lock smith

 

Guess I should have put the damn glasses on looked like it would clear the keyway.Thanks.

 

The bezel isn't large enough to get over the tumbler - tried that! Good thought tho.

Counterclockwise is the direction to go. Got it out on the first try. It helped being able to put it in the vise. After feeling a couple of small detents while turning it out it popped. I recommend in the vehicle to not loosen the nut until after removing the tumbler. Thanks for the help! One step closer...