Hi all!

I am helping my son in law get a 1989 Firebird (2.8L, Automatic) going. The first problem we are up against is the ignition switch. It won't turn to the start position. It stops at the run position. We have exposed the linkage in the steering column (looks good) and are ready to remove the ignition switch.

The vehicle has the dreaded VATS. We have a key. It does not appear that the VATS is the problem. We are thinking something is broken in the switch.

The big question is this: Do we have to get a special ignition switch because this vehicle has VATS, or can we simply pick one up at the local Kragen/Autozone, etc?

Thanks in advance!

 

someone correct me if im wrong.....

any random ignition switch from an 89+ third gen will work

these switches have a wire that is somehow connected to the vats. i dont know if the generic switches that are carried by the local part store have this given wire

try a sponsor of TGO: thirdgenranch, they have real good deals and good quality parts

 

I know CarQuest carries switches - I've replaced from there - I'd assume Napa as well - you just have to get a new key made to match the switch blank, but with the same resistor as the old key.

 

the reason i brought thirdgenranch to the conv is because i bought a vats system from them and received the vats module, ign switch an key for that specific set-up at a fair price.

 

Just to clarify, the lock cylinder is fine - we are talking about the actual electrical switch. We are trying to figure out if this switch is involved in the vats and if we can just use an off the shelf switch.

BTW we have measured the resistance of the key and it's 11.8k.

Thanks!

 

Off the shelf is fine. VATS has nothing to do with the operation of the ignition switch it is a separate system. Its a separate system that enables the car to start by enabling the starter relay and also sends a signal to the ECM to allow it to enable the fuel injector pulse. I believe although could be mistaken that any 82-92 switch would work as again the switch is a totally separate from VATS.

 

Have you tried to manually operate the ingition switch? The switch on the column is adjustable, alot of people overlook this. It is totally seperate from the Vats system, so an aftermarket replacement will not be an issue, only the Ignition lock cylinder is connected to the Vats.