How to identify steering column?

My 32 has a steering column with tilt and I need to replace my ignition switch. How do I identify what my steering column came out of orginally so that I can get a new switch?

I can provide pictures too, but I thought there may be numbers on it somewhere?

Thanks,

 

we are going to need pictures

 

if there are no numbers on the switch itself, most good parts stores (NAPA, which stands for North American Penis Assosiation) have books with pics and a small description.......hope this helps

 

Napa stands for No Auto Parts Available

dirybyrd is right , if you just take the switch down there they may be able to match it up. there is a good chance it is a GM column , so it shouldn't be too hard

 

Most tilt columns in street rods are from GMs. Check to see if it has a dimmer switch built in to the column. If so, it's probably from a 78 to 87 midsize or full size car, or 80s truck.

If it does not have a dimmer on it, then it's probably from an early to mid 70s car or truck.

There were a few different switches used, also there are different lock cylinders, the method of retaining the lock cylinder changed in the late 70s, from a spring loaded tab to a screw. And there are other parts in there including some gears that can be bad and cause problems. Not to mention the 4 screws in the tilt mechanism that get loose and make the switch not work.

Might help to get someone who knows about these columns to take a look at it...

 

on a GM column , the actual ignition switch (the part the wires attach to) is down along the lower part of the column and is activated with a rod by the key/lock/tumbler assembly up by the wheel

what part are do you need?

 

Lot's of good info here! I am going to snap a few pics for you guys and post them so we know for sure. Should have them in 1-2 days.

My problem is when I insert the key and turn it on, sometimes I have to jiggle it around to get it to turn. Then when it does turn and I put it to start and realease it, it feels like its "sticking/dragging" a little inside and causes my starter to drag for just a split second.

I have found that if I turn the key switch to "start" and manually snap it back to the "run" position after the car starts it works just fine with no starter drag.

Once I get the pictures to you guys and we find out what I have. I will need you to describe to me how to remove the ignition switch or maybe some other things I can try before pulling the whole thing. I have never done it.

Thanks much!

 

See if the column itself is loose, try to wiggle the steering wheel around and see if there is any motion between parts of the column, where it tilts. If so, then you need to disassemble the column and tighten the 4 loose screws. This is a tricky job....and requires a few special tools.

If the column is tight, then you could have some worn parts in the mechanism that actuates the switch, or the switch could be out of adjustment, or it could be going bad. I don't think I've ever had to replace a switch, but I have had to do mechanical work on those columns.

 

Sounds like maybe the little rod that goes from key to switch might be hangin up,like Squirrel said GM's are bad to get floppy,if you take it apart put some Loc-tite on the screws,one of them is about impossible to get to.I just get 3 of them tight and they seem to work OK.

 

My steering wheel and the tilt column is all very good and tight. Only problem is the switch.