I have a problem, does not happen all the time, but sometimes when I turn the engine off the switch will not return to the full off position. acts like it is still in gear (key can not be removed). I found that there is a rod that runs down the colum to a switch that will not allow the key switch to return to the full off position unless activated. what tells this switch that the car is in park? the only switch I see at the shifter is for the back up lights.

 

Check out that cable that goes from the steering column to the shifter. Going to have to remove the center console to get to it and possibly the carpet. That cable probably needs to be replaced.

 

thanks for the info, I will check it out.

 

somethign else it might be is the tumbler in the ignition switch its self. I had this problem, but now i can start my car without a key took all the tumblers out the sheild that holds them in was bent and wouldnt let it return to the full lock possition.

 

It looks to me like it is an electricly activated switch. if I shut the motor off in gear and try to remove the key the switch will not return to the full off position. if I put it in park it will still not come out till I turn the key to the run position, I then hear a click at the column and then the key will return to the full off position.like I said it does not happen all the time

 

Are you parking the car with the wheels pointed strait ahead?

If not somtimes the column will bind and the key will stick.

 

I had thought that might be the problem, but I tryed moving the wheel to several positions and it made no difference. I feel there is a switch that is engaged when the shifter is in park, and sometimes it makes contact other times not. this is my wifes car it is a 1995 Z28 LT1. I found 2 cables at the shifter one goes to the transmission, and the other looks like it keeps the shifter in park till the brake pedal is depressed.

 

Some times the cylinder around the column of my 86TA spins and the same thing will happen.

 

there is a TSB that may apply to your car.

go to the dealer & ask for TSB bulletin # 67-71-40A