Key ignition Switch locked up tight

Old Redneck

Old Redneck

Well-known member
Yesterday I wanted to move the T-Bird. The Ignition Switch felt funny when I started the car. After moving the car I could not turn off the Ignition Switch. I played with it for several minutes before I could turn it off. What cause that? I can't even get the key out? Ever this happen to you? I called Hull's and ordered a complete Ignition Switch. How much trouble is it to take apart?
 
IIRC, the problem is going to be getting the bezel off with the key in place. Once the switch is out there's a button, or a hole you put a small punch, in that releases the cylinder. I think the key has to be in at that point, and turned to a certain place. Been years since I've done it and my memory is foggy. I'd try to get some oil or graphite in there to get the key to release.
 
The one in my '59 gets sticky (bought it at NAPA...) and at the 1st sign of it happening, I give the key a coat of Lock Ease and it stays good for a while. Try WD40 shot in along side of the key, let it set a bit and jiggle it.
 
The new Ignition Switch should be here today. On the rear end the pinion learning was loose. we took it to AllStar Transmission to see what we all need. They have the tools to do the job. It trying to rain here today.I will know more about the reared next week.They are taking tomorrow of to go camping this weekend. The 27 we are going on a tour. I am driving my 50 Ford Crestliner. It need run. I think it only 50 miles or so.
 

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It's my experience that the lock cylinder is locked. Once you get the cylinder out, you can operate the switch with a screwdriver. in fact, after I bought my car I changed the lock cylinder. The switch assembly comes out of the dash with zero tools on my 57.
1) Lean under dash push body of switch towards the back of the car.
2) put your finger tops on the bezel, and rotate it CCW. The bezel can now be pi\ulled away from the dash.
3) withdraw the switch assembly back down from under the dash.

I'd recommend pulling a battery cable. You never know...

In this case, put the key in, and try to turn it like 1/2 way. A paper clip as I recall will push the keeper back, and the cylinder will fall out. Then you should easily be able to operate the switch with a screwdriver. If you can you know the cylinder if the cuplrit. Either a broken spring, or a seized pin.
 
Finally Bill got the key out of the ignition switch. I understand the repro Ignition Switch are no good. They don't last long. Where a good place to find a NOS?
 
check ebay. Try the various vendors for a Ford unit. Maybe C & G parts has one. You should be able to get a new key cylinder. Or try a locksmith for repair of yours


The problem could be just the key cylinder. I suggest going to lock smith and see what he says.
 
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If anyone needs or wants one....
I have N.O.S. U.S.A. made Ignition Switches & Tumblers. ...... &
I have a couple last FOMOCO / MOTORCRAFT. Ignition Switches & Tumblers...

Always best to call me --- Craig ---. 516 - 485 - 1935..... New York....
 
If the original ignition key fit the doors, I would suggest taking the switch to a lock smith to have him see if it can be repaired so to keep the set.
 
If you scroll up, you will see that I offered you N.O.R.S. U.S.A. made !!!!!! &
++++++ N.O.S. FOMOCO / MOTORCRAFT ++++++++
And, you decided to go Wuhan, Chineseum special.........

There still is time in life to take control of your common senses !!!!!!
 
Hey old redneck,
Nice, I am nice --- I steered you in the right direction and gave you my phone number to make it extremely easy.....
If by nice, you mean FREE, than if you have two farmers daughters, we can negotiate a trade....
Have a --- nice --- day.
 
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