ignition switch lock cylinder wont stay in

M

mikhett

Senior Member
I replaced the ignition switch in my 62 galaxie 390 and installed the bezel so "off " is at 12 o clock "acc" at 11 o clock and "start at 3 oclock just like it was.I cant get the lock cylinder to stay in place.Do I need the paperclock to install it?? Thanks
 
Call a local locksmith and ask them, would be my first guess.
Of course they'll likely ask you to bring it in (for a 'slight fee') but you might find someone who'll give you some DIY hints.
 
Match up the old one and new one, make sure they're the same. The one on my '59 had a heavy spring behind it and it took a few tries to get it right.
 
1952 - 1959 is one set up -- and 1960 - 1967 is the next.....
Maybe you did get the wrong one --
if you are still having issues (I just came across your thread)...
I have N.O.S. U.S.A. made ignition switches and tumblers ---
always fit to perfection......:)
 
I don't know how the '60 and newer ones go together, but the '50's ignition switches are real easy to remove & install. You can open the door and squat down outside the car, leaning inside you can reach in behind the dash with your left hand and just push the switch in toward the dash, while using the thumb of your right hand to twist the bezel center retainer counterclockwise. It will release and you can pull the switch out from the back. The bezel itself is notched so it can only go in with "off" at 12 o'clock. The switch housing also has a notch at the top.
To re-install you need to guide it back in so that the notch lines up with the keyway in the switch hole cutout thru the illumination panel at the back of the dashboard. The ignition switch is spring loaded. While holding the bezel and center retainer in place, push the switch in with enough pressure to allow for to bezel retainer tabs to engage and just turn the center piece clockwise with your thumb. There is a special tool for this, but I have never needed it. Again this is for the pre 1960 models. What you have may be a little different.
 
Wait a minute! are you saying the lock cylinder itself will not stay in the switch housing?
If that is true, believe it or not all you need to do is install the lock cylinder then get the key and turn it to the "off" position. This causes a little button near the back of the cylinder to pop up into a mating hole in the switch housing, locking it in place.
 
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