1937 ignition key removal

MyDads37

MyDads37

Junior Member
I'm new to the Barn and have just acquired a 1937 4 door sedan convertible that will keep me plenty busy on this forum... not sure where to start so I'll "start" with the ignition switch. There is a key in the ignition that turns left and right but will not come out. I purchased a copy of the owners manual and learned that the on/off switch to the right of the key needs to be in the off position to release the key.
Unfortunately this didn't work. My fear is breaking the key. Any ideas on how to remove the key?
Thanks in advance and look forward to the knowledge and wisdom that will allow me to get this gem of a car rolling down the road with my dad grinning from ear to ear!
 
Try This:Turn the switch to the off position.Then turn the key to the lock position while jiggling the steering wheel.Once the lock is engaged in the column,the key should come out. Please keep in mind that this is how my '36 works.I'm hoping your '37 is the same.
 
The release of the key is a function of the lock cylinder itself. The cylinder must be in the correct position in order for the key to be released. It may be a mechanical problem with the column drop,... external... to the lock cylinder, that is causing the problem. I usually don't like to use penetrating oils on lock cylinders but in your case it may be necessary to loosen up the internals in order for the lock cylinder to rotate completely to release the key. Try some PB blaster or WD40. Once you get it working try to flush that stuff out of the cylinder with a high quality lock lubricant . Call me if you still need help....845 457 3546 Phil
 
Thanks for the reply's!
Willit - I tried your suggestion... however the steering wheel never feels like it wants to lock... it continues to move freely. I assume the "lock" position on the key is to the left?? I'm also not sure how far left it's supposed to turn... the key only moves from roughly 11 o'clock to 1 o'clock a very small swing.
Also this car has been sitting for over 50 years... so more than likely something is froze up.
32phil - Is it possible to remove the cylinder with the key still in it and not in the locked position?
Thanks,
Tim
 
Sounds to me like the lock may not be lining up with the hole in your steering column.
You stated: Willit - I tried your suggestion... however the steering wheel never feels like it wants to lock... it continues to move freely.
 
The sliding pin that engages with the sleeve on your steering shaft may be frozen in the lock. Also look under the lock to see if the small screw that covers a locking pin for the lock cyl has been disturbed. Lots of shadetree things were done to disable those locks.
 
It is possible to remove that lock cylinder with the key still in place. There have been illustrated drawings with detailed instructions on how to dismantle the column drop posted by Don Rogers in the past. A quick search would bring those previous posts back up for you.

pdf file for downloading:
https://www.fordbarn.com/attachments/160594/
 
Last edited:
I found a great lock lubricant at our local locksmith called ABus Lock Lubricate PS 88. The key on my 39 got where it would not turn and one spray with this stuff and it was like new.
 
I checked my '36 again.CCW to unlock.It is at the 9&3 o'clock position.In other words,the key should be horizontal to lock and 180 degrees the other way should be unlock.The ignition switch will only operate in the unlock position.Could be that someone shoved the wrong key in the lock.I dunno.
 
John (JMsedan)answered your question correctly about removing the cylinder with the key in place. It does not take much to keep a key in a cylinder. The cylinder must be in the correct position for the key to be released. If it is off by just a degree or two it will not come out.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top