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Author Topic: How to replace ignition switch?  (Read 42233 times)

Offline Snosh

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How to replace ignition switch?
« 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.
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Offline Norseman

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Re: How to replace ignition switch?
« Reply #1 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.
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77 Chevy K10 SWB, 292/4spd (350 on the engine stand pending rebuild)
1985 Ford F-350 FB, Detroit 453T/4spd/3spd (At least the engine is GM!)
2004 Dodge Ram SLT Quad Cab 4x4, Cummins/auto (Sorry, I can't own an Isuzu diesel)

Offline bd

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Re: How to replace ignition switch?
« Reply #2 on: November 14, 2014, 10:50:20 am »
The 1978 Service Manual 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.
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Rich
It's difficult to know just how much you don't know until you know it.
In other words... if people learn by making mistakes, by now I should know just about everything!!!
87 R10 Silverado Fleetside 355 MPFI 700R4 3.42 Locker (aka Rusty, aka Mater)

Offline roundhouse

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Re: How to replace ignition switch?
« Reply #3 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
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Offline Junkie

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Re: How to replace ignition switch?
« Reply #4 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?
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1973 C20, 350/350

Offline donald_b_bell

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Re: How to replace ignition switch?
« Reply #5 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?
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Offline zieg85

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Re: How to replace ignition switch?
« Reply #6 on: November 24, 2014, 07:40:44 am »
Quote from: 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?
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
« Last Edit: November 24, 2014, 07:43:48 am by zieg85 »
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Carl 
1985 C20 Scottsdale 7.4L 4 speed 3.21
1986 C10 under construction
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Offline gwcrim

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Re: How to replace ignition switch?
« Reply #7 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.
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Offline roundhouse

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Re: How to replace ignition switch?
« Reply #8 on: November 25, 2014, 09:10:15 am »

Quote from: 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?

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

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