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T-Series Ignition switch

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GaryBeu

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Soo...our steering column is locked and the key won't turn the ignition switch. Guess it's time for a new switch but...

I've read the removal instructions in my Bentley manual Sections J.3 and J.9. I CAN'T BELIEVE that I have to remove the whole steering column to get this out!! Is this really true? Also, it says to just "turn the key to unlock the steering". I can't turn the key. Any suggestions here? I'm feeling a little helpless and overwhelmed. :frown: Thanks.

ps. This is a 1971 VIN #GHN5UB220017G
 
GaryBeu said:
Soo...our steering column is locked and the key won't turn the ignition switch. Guess it's time for a new switch but...

I've read the removal instructions in my Bentley manual Sections J.3 and J.9. I CAN'T BELIEVE that I have to remove the whole steering column to get this out!! Is this really true? Also, it says to just "turn the key to unlock the steering". I can't turn the key. Any suggestions here? I'm feeling a little helpless and overwhelmed. :frown: Thanks.

ps. This is a 1971 VIN #GHN5UB220017G
Click to expand...

Have you called a locksmith? I know money is tight but this could be a time a VISA card is your best tool.

If not, I can tell you what has happened, one of the pins which makes your lock unique has popped out and is wedged between the tumbler and the sleeve. If you can get it out, don't even try to replace it - it will make your key slightly less secure but it is an MG for heaven's sake. Another possibility would be just too swap ignition tumblers altogether.

good luck!
 
JP...The key is so worn after 41 years that I'm not sure what a locksmith could do :smile:. I don't really want to replace the whole ignition/locking system but I don't see just a tumbler in the catalogs and don't know how to get it out. That would be my first wish...any suggestions?
 
I have removed a couple units this way;
Remove the plastic cover below the steering wheel, it's in two parts, then take a Dremel tool with a small carbide cutting disc and cut a slot in the shear screw head so a screw driver can be inserted and the screw will back out, you have two screws. The unit will come out so you can work on it and the steering will be unlocked. PJ
 
Thanks Paul and Marvin. We REALLY appreciate the info. We'll try that and let you know.
 
Hey Marvin...We finally got the time today and did what Paul suggested. Got the two pieces off the column and wheel is unlocked. Took the wiring part of the switch out but, HOW do you get the tumbler with key out? We're totally lost on that... Thanks.
 
WD-40'd the switch and worked it back and forth a few times. Reinstalled and it seems to work just fine !! Must have just been gummed up...wheahhhh
 
GaryBeu said:
WD-40'd the switch and worked it back and forth a few times. Reinstalled and it seems to work just fine !! Must have just been gummed up...wheahhhh
Click to expand...

Yahoo!!! Gotta love the simple solutions.
 
WD is not a lubricant of any longevity, Gar. Hit a local gun store or WallyWorld, get an aerosol can of "RemOil"... squirt some of that in there. :wink:
 
I'll do that Doc...thanks.
 
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