Well, I finally got it shut down, but not by turning the key backward. When I go to turn the car off it seems like the key will simply not turn any farther back. Earlier today I tried to lubricate the switch a little and now the key won't turn forward either. So for now I just had to unhook the battery. Anyone know how to take the switch out?

 

The key part of it is just the lock tumbler. The actual ignition switch is mounted on top of the column under the dash. Sounds like a simple adjustment problem.

 

Well then it must be the tumbler that's messed up. I thought maybe it was the key since it's so old, but I used a fairly new copy I have and it was no better.

 

I had the same problem, only completely different. I couldn't turn something on.

 

If you want to take the tumbler out, you need to pull the steering wheel. Then you'll probably need a horn ring compressor to remove the snap ring that holds the plate in. Unbolt the signal switch and pull it out. That gets you down far enough to the tumbler.

The newer styles have a special screw that holds the tumbler in. Older styles you need to use a small screwdriver and a hammer to break the thin pot metal that covers the tumbler lock. Once that's removed, you can use the screwdriver to push in the tumbler lock and remove the tumbler.

It's not that hard to do but my description isn't the best on what's really needed. I've done a few of them so I know exactly what's involved.

Best thing to do is go to a junkyard with some tools and practice just to see what's involved.

 

Thanks Stephen. I'll try it out unless I just give up and pay someone else to do it.

 

If you examine or buy a new tumbler, you'll see where the lock is that you need to push in. All the tumbler does is turn and move a rack and pinion. The tumbler turns the pinion that moves the rack. The rack is attached to a rod that goes down the column to the switch.

It's also possible some teeth broke on the rack or pinion or the rack itself broke. It's only pot metal.

That is if we're talking about an ignition that's in the steering column. I always have to assume it's this type. The old "ignition in the dash" is much easier but that would something from back in the 60's.

 

Be a man and stall it with the clutch! Who needs a key?

 

Try shooting some graphite in the key hole. I had the same problem with a Cavalier once and after I compltetely diasassembled it, I got it to turn while holding it in my hand.