I found a great deal on a 72 Skylark Conv but the owner lost the keys, how hard is it to get the ignition switch out of the column (to either slap in a new one or have a locksmith make a new key)? Emphasis is on how hard is it to remove the lock. Thanks Greg ________ Toyota Porte History
It is simple if you have the directions. If you want I can scan and email you the pages from my 69 shop manual (should be the same). DO NOT attempt to pry off the "guard" that surrounds the key!!! It is integrated into the lock cylinder and makes it tougher to remove if it is off. You need to pull the wheel (you MUST use a steering wheel puller, but they are cheap at Pep Boys) and remove the locking plate, cover and turn signal cam. Then rotate the cylinder (I don't recall if it is forward or backward) and use a miniature screw driver to release a locking pin. It is easy, but kind of time consuming. Getting that darn retaining ring off the column behind the wheel is the WORST!
:grin: The ignition switch is not hard to get out IF you have the right tools! You will have to use a wheel puller to remove the steering wheel, making sure to notice the marks to align the wheel to the column splined shaft. Once the wheel is removed, a metal or plastic cover will be next, if it is plastic, carefully pry it outward and upward to release it from the lock ring on the column. If it is metal, three screws hold it on. This is where you need a spcial tool to thread on to the column shaft and press down on the lock plate, to release a snap ring on the column shaft. Slide the snap ring up and remove the tool. There should be a horn contact slide ring under the lock plate, along with a spring, remove them both. The next piece down is the turn signal handle and switch. Remove the handle and the screws that hold the switch in place, along with the screw that holds the emergency flasher switch to the column. It may help to remove the turnsignal harness from its bracket on the lower portion of the column to give the wires some slack. Carefully pull the turnsignal switch up until you see the area of the upper right column where the lock cylinder is located. There should be a vertical slot by the base of the lock cylinder about a 1/2 inch long by an 1/8 inch wide. Stick a screw driver blade into the slot to release the tab holding the lock cylinder to the column and pull the lock cylinder out. Reverse procedure to install. Lock cylinders are available at a number of auto parts houses, or go the lock smith route. Hope this helps, Tim
Thanks for the great info. Sounds a good bit of work so my first call will be to Sloan to see if the data they have includes the key code. ________ Free Whole Foods Gift Cards
