Starter Turning over- Please help

[omahaguy]

Strange deal I recently bought an 78 Midget and it has been running great. Today I jumped in and the key would not turn past the 2nd position to start. I have had no indications of this before, so I am quite puzzled by this. I have turned the wheel to see if it needs to be in a position before starting with no luck. Has this happened to anyone or are there any suggestions?

Thanks

 

[SilentUnicorn]

Welcome aboard!
My key will sometimes hang if the steering wheel is tight on the steering lock, a good wiggle or two will usually allow it to work. Make sure your key didnt get bent, if so carefully straighten it out. other than that, you may have to pull the switch, unscrew the switch from the back of the tumbler, then using a screw driver you will at least be able to start the car.

mark

 

[100DashSix]

I had something similar happen on a very hot day. It turns out the plastic of my MG's ignition switch allowed the metal of the lock to slip past it, making me think the lock was stuck before the first notch. I had to take the plastic switch out, and I start the car with a button for the moment.

When it was working properly, I'd often have to wiggle the wheel back and forth to get the key to turn.

 

[Banjo]

It's common to find problems like that in older cars. The tumblers in the key cylinder can get worn or bent, as does the key. Especially if the PO had a huge wad of keys and doodads on the same ring. Then it will eventually start hanging up in spots. Looks like you should be pricing out a new ignition lock cylinder

 

[omahaguy]

thanks I will give those all a good go before taking her into my car guy.