Ok i had to replace my cylinder lock (tumbler) and my mech told my while i ws down there i should probally replace the ignition switch. Go the steering wheel off ok, got the new tumbler in and hooked up, couldnt find where the ignition switch was so i didnt replace it. (bought a new one at auto zone and could not find anything that looked remotly like it!) my battery is fine as I tried to jump it and got the reading on the battery gauge around half. all electrical works, radio, windows everything. When i try to start it nothing will crank or turn over or anything. My old tumbler used a key that had a resistor chip in it. The replacement one does not. Now do i need to replace it with an exact replacement or what? also where is that ignintion switch located exactly!?!?!?! thanks in advance to anyone who can help.

-andy

 

RF,

You need to use a lock cylinder with the VATS contacts, or your engine will never start.

The ignition switch is located at the base of the steering column, attached to the top of the outer column jacket. It connects to the lock cylinder via linkage rods. Sorry about the graphic size, but you'll need it for clarity:

 

Thank you, i have been searching the board now to find that exact graphic, however i couldnt fine it, your a life and time saver. Also I had an idea. Instead of buying a new lock cylinder and/or a key w/resistor chip, I am going to keep the old broken one plugged in (key is stuck in run position.) Then keep the new cylinder i bought in the steering column. that way i can use it to turn the car on off mechanical wise, but it will still be reading the VATS chip on the original key. I had to drive it back from my mech with the old cylinder plugged in and had to start it with a pair of pliars in the column. Should work the same way.

again thanks