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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Interior & Equipment => Steering Columns => Topic started by: Snosh on November 03, 2014, 08:44:38 am

Title: How to replace ignition switch?
Post by: Snosh on November 03, 2014, 08:44:38 am
I have '78 K10 4x4 with a 350

I need to replace the ignition switch in my truck but I am not sure how to do it, can anyone help? Do I need a steering wheel puller? Also I'll be replacing the lock cylinder at the same time if that makes a difference. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: How to replace ignition switch?
Post by: Norseman on November 14, 2014, 10:01:12 am
I sure thought someone would reply by now. I'm out in the oilfield until early next month so I won't be able to check my  manual. Search 73-91 GM truck column tear down and the videos will walk you through it. Yes, the steering wheel does have to come off.
Title: Re: How to replace ignition switch?
Post by: bd on November 14, 2014, 10:50:20 am
The 1978 Service Manual (http://www.73-87chevytrucks.com/techinfo/7387CKMans//Service/ST_330_78_1978_Chevrolet_Light_Truck_Service_Manual.pdf) highlights the process beginning on page 222 (3B-37) with the Steering Wheel removal, page 226 (3B-41) removing the Directional Signal Switch followed by the Lock Cylinder, and page 228 (3B-43) replacing the Ignition Switch.
Title: Re: How to replace ignition switch?
Post by: roundhouse on November 15, 2014, 07:17:03 am
Easy. Takes about an hour

Need a steering wheel puller
Then remove screws from turn signal switch and shove it over a little

You will also need a tool to remove the ring that prevents the wheel from turning when the ign is off
Its a $15 tool and impossible to do without it

It compresses the locking ring while you remove a snap ring then it all pulls off

Once you get to it there is only one screw holding the cylinder in

The electric switches however are at the bottom of the column
Title: Re: How to replace ignition switch?
Post by: Junkie on November 24, 2014, 07:17:05 am
On my truck it seems the rod that goes from the key to the electrical part of the switch isn't working right. Can anyone point me toward how to fix it?
Title: Re: How to replace ignition switch?
Post by: donald_b_bell on November 24, 2014, 07:36:13 am
<<< You will also need a tool to remove the ring that prevents the wheel from turning when the ign is off Its a $15 tool and impossible to do without it >>>

Would you please post something more about this tool?  I don't have one and am wondering where to buy on.  What is the manufacturers' name and part number?
Title: Re: How to replace ignition switch?
Post by: zieg85 on November 24, 2014, 07:40:44 am
<<< You will also need a tool to remove the ring that prevents the wheel from turning when the ign is off Its a $15 tool and impossible to do without it >>>

Would you please post something more about this tool?  I don't have one and am wondering where to buy on.  What is the manufacturers' name and part number?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/AUTOMOTIVE-CAR-AUTO-STEERING-WHEEL-PULLER-LOCK-PLATE-REMOVER-REMOVAL-TOOL-KIT-/290962544352?hash=item43beb816e0&item=290962544352&pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/CTA-1504-Steering-Wheel-Air-Bag-Lock-Plate-Remover-Puller-Installer-Tool-/271660121532?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f40347dbc

the second one is what I have, just to remove the locking plate.  The first is a dual purpose set
Title: Re: How to replace ignition switch?
Post by: gwcrim on November 24, 2014, 10:44:24 am
I just replaced mine.  That tool is available as a loaner from Autozone.  I watched a video on YouTube to see how it is done.   It's not real difficult.   You'll need a steering wheel puller too.  I have one but I think you can rent one from the Zone.
Title: Re: How to replace ignition switch?
Post by: roundhouse on November 25, 2014, 09:10:15 am

On my truck it seems the rod that goes from the key to the electrical part of the switch isn't working right. Can anyone point me toward how to fix it?

There is a thread on here somewhere
It has a gear and teeth  on the top of the rod that can break