Author Topic: Ignition Key Cylinder not "springing back"  (Read 749 times)

L8KRFAN

  • Active Forum Member
  • *
  • Posts: 511
Ignition Key Cylinder not "springing back"
« on: November 06, 2022, 09:36:25 AM »
Not sure how better to explain it, but finally getting around to firing up my derelict 74 Esprit and noticed the key cylinder does not "spring back" after the car starts. I have to do that myself or the starter stays engaged. I've never torn apart a steering column but will have to I suppose.

What should I be looking out for? Thanks!
Los Angeles, California
-----------------------------------
1979 Trans Am Olds 403 Matching Numbers
1974 Firebird Esprit 350
1971 Camaro SS350 Matching Numbers

firebirdparts

  • Jedi Council
  • Oracle Forum Member
  • *
  • Posts: 19504
Re: Ignition Key Cylinder not "springing back"
« Reply #1 on: November 07, 2022, 02:33:02 PM »
I believe it's the switch itself (not the lock) which is spring-loaded.  The switch id down under the dash.  A rod goes down from the lock and pushes on it.
I want to be like Paul Kenny when I grow up
Joe Bays
1977 Y82 4-speed (red interior)
1978 Skybird 350
1978 Redbird 305
1979 Redbird 301 4-speed
1992 Lincoln Mark VII LSC/SE (red)
1970 Datsun Pickup
1953 Chevy pickup (converted 4x4)
1988 T-bird Turbo Coupe

L8KRFAN

  • Active Forum Member
  • *
  • Posts: 511
Re: Ignition Key Cylinder not "springing back"
« Reply #2 on: November 08, 2022, 11:40:42 AM »
I believe it's the switch itself (not the lock) which is spring-loaded.  The switch id down under the dash.  A rod goes down from the lock and pushes on it.

Thanks for the info!
Los Angeles, California
-----------------------------------
1979 Trans Am Olds 403 Matching Numbers
1974 Firebird Esprit 350
1971 Camaro SS350 Matching Numbers

L8KRFAN

  • Active Forum Member
  • *
  • Posts: 511
Re: Ignition Key Cylinder not "springing back"
« Reply #3 on: December 05, 2022, 09:27:11 PM »
I believe it's the switch itself (not the lock) which is spring-loaded.  The switch id down under the dash.  A rod goes down from the lock and pushes on it.

Indeed the switch was the culprit. It needed to be adjusted on the column slightly towards the driver which produced more resistance against the spring inside the switch allowing for more spring back action.

Many thanks! 
Los Angeles, California
-----------------------------------
1979 Trans Am Olds 403 Matching Numbers
1974 Firebird Esprit 350
1971 Camaro SS350 Matching Numbers

Re: Ignition Key Cylinder not "springing back"
« Reply #3 on: December 05, 2022, 09:27:11 PM »
You can help support TAC!