1972vettman

I recently had to replace the ignition switch and the guy that installed the switch said that there was a gear with teeth in the steering column that needed to be replaced as well. Once he installed the switch he showed me how it was sticking and that there would be a problem getting the car to start because there would be no electrical current to the starter once the ignition switch was turned . My question is, does anyone know about this gear and how big of a job it is to replace ? I've done some research through books and on the web and i can't find anything. I even found a breakdown of the steering column and don't see any mention of this gear nor it being worn causing starting problems . I have had the starter and solenoid checked and they are good, the battery is charged, the ignition switch is just spinning and there is no power via the ignition to turn the starter. I'm beginning to wonder if the locksmith knew what he was doing. How big/exstensive of a job is it to replace the switch? Let me know your thoughts.

Jim Shea

I have complete instructions on replacing your ignition switch and id you have to, the plastic sector gear. It makes a difference if you have a T&T column or if you have a standard non-adjustable. The T&T is just a bit more complicated.

On the T&T, if you replace the sector you might just as well replace the little die cast rack that the sector mates to. The rack is usually the thing that breaks.

It will be best if you pull the steering column out of the car and place the column in a vise in order to have more room to work.

You will need instructions 1,2,& 3 along with the pictures 1,2,& 3 that go with the instructions. (Again either T&T or standard). There are also blowup drawings as well.

They are all posted at www.corvettefaq.com in the Steering Section.

I am sure that we can walk you through the column and switch repair if you have the time.

Jim Shea