WhiteKnight

So I was having problems getting my GTA to start and I finally figured out that I had to find a really small sweet spot with the key. The car has sat for a couple years in a bit of a damn environment so I figure its probably a bit of corrosion on the switch contacts.

I've been looking in my haynes manual and it looks like a bit of a bitch of a job to take these columns apart. The manual gives instructions on removing the lock cylinder, but no mention of the ignition switch. I've never dealt with a steering column before. Will the switch come out with the cylinder or are there any additional steps? I would assume that the switch is secured to the back of the cylinder but I just wanted to double check before I start ripping into this. Thanks.

1981LT1

iTrader: (1)

The ignition switch acutally bolts to the top of the column between the firewall and the steering wheel. It is held on with two small screws and the easiest way to get to it is to remove the two nuts that hold the column to the dash and let it drop enough to get a socket on it. the lock cylinder is no fun but not to hard if you have the patience and tools. You will need a lock plate remover and the rest is normal hand tools. If your key has the resistor pellet, you might want to lightly scuff the sides to make sure the contact is clean. Does the car crank?

Mgb86

iTrader: (3)

Could be the VATS system not reading your key correctly. Try that. If it does end up being your ignition switch don't sweat it. They aren't that bad once you get into them, just get a steering wheel puller and go slow. If you have a Haynes manual your already half way there. I would think it would be smart to check and tighten the 4 bolts at the base of the tilt mechanism if your going to be taking the column down that far anyway. If you check the Tech Articles Page there is a great write up on this.