Cannot remove key from ignition of 1970 Firebird Formula 400

60

Asked by Formula_Guy Aug 09, 2016 at 01:15 PM about the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula

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

60

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, :<(

3 people found this helpful.
60

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.

60

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?

1 people found this helpful.
60

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?

60

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.

1 people found this helpful.
60

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.

60

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

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