I'm about to swap my steering column for a tilt column.

right now I have a 5 speed, and the key release button is behind the switch.

The column I have to replace it, the key release is ON the switch (assuming it has something to do with the tilt being there)

I want to use my switch because I have three good keys for it, all that match my VATS. If I do, I'll have no key release switch at all. Will I be able to remove the key? (can the release be rigged to release without the switch)

Should I just plan on having new keys made to match the switch that's in there? Don't really want to, but I will if I have to. I guess unless I'm really lucky I'll have to bypass the VATS at the same time

 

Bump. I'm starting to think need to research the VATS Bypass...

 

Is the switch part of the actual lock cylinder? If you're taking the whole thing apart, you can remove the cylinder and swap it over to the other column. I don't know how different they are, if at all. I remember pulling apart an 80s tilt and non tilt column and thought the lock cylinders looked the same, but they were a bit older than what you're working with. Do you have it apart at all?

 

I was trying to do research before I tore the thing apart, or if it's going to be tricky, letting a pro do it. There is a place in dallas that specializes in steering columns and his prices are reasonable

 

There are a few special tools you'll need, or at least that came in handy when I took one apart. The one that presses in the lock plate is a must. The first time I did this I bent it because I didn't use that tool, and your steering wheel will never be right again when bent. All in all, it isn't that hard, and it gives you a good look at the inside of the steering wheel and column components. This video isn't bad, and it gives you a decent look at what you should expect.

 

Has nothing to do with "tilt".

In stick cars, you push the little lever thing on the column as you turn the key to "Lock".

In auto cars, the same thing is accomplished by a part of the column being connected to the shifter by a linkage, and shifting it to "Park" operates the linkage in question.

Bottom line is, when you put the column in, rotate the collar to the "Park" position, and leave it there, and never take it out of "Park". Or if you do, put it back into "Park" before trying to remove the key.

No need in messing with VATS, special tools, videos, prices, or any of that.

We've all been doing this since the Park/Lock interlock appeared in about 1969 or so. None of it is specific to 3rd gen F bodies, F-bodies at all, or any of that.

 

Well that's good to know that it can be set in a position and left there. That answers the question, thanks