dewhurstaj

1966 Corvette
Problem: - No current to the S terminal on the Solenoid.
Thus, I suspected a bad ignition switch
I removed the ignition switch w/o a problem for cleaning & testing.
The key tumbler assembly came out w/ 5 very small springs.
I cleaned the tumbler & ignition switch w/ brake clean & inserted the key & tumbler assembly to test w/o the spring.
Now the tumbler will not turn.
I may have inserter the tumbler rotated 180 degrees out of phase.
The pin release hole appears out of phase.
Any help w/ be appreciated.
I would like to use the original tumbler & key if possible.
Thanks!
Andy

R66

I don't have a 66 switch out of a car, but do have a 65 switch (066). I attempted to put the lock cylinder in 180 degrees out and didn't succeed using normal force to reassemble it. The lock cylinder sticks up about 1/16" prior to pushing inward when properly aligned in the housing. When 180 degrees out, the lock cylinder sticks up about 1/4" or more.
Assuming the 65 and 66 cylinders are similar, I don't believe you can assemble it wrong.

Correct alignment

Incorrect alignment, ~ 180 degrees out.

With the fear of being stupid, I went out and removed the ignition switch cylinder from R66 and found it is indeed different than the 65 ignition switch cylinder. Although different, I still could not put the ignition switch cylinder back in 180 degrees out, although I didn't try to force it.

Ron

ChrisBlair

The lock cylinder should have two tabs, one thin and one wider, that prevent it from being installed 180* out. These tabs are circumferentially located near the extreme end of the cylinder, 180* apart. Quite close to the rounded off, rectangular feature that actually turns the ignition switch.. If you (can) look down the bore of the switch, you;ll see the two reliefs down in the bore,

I have a '65 switch in hand and I can't remove my '66 switch right now.

R66

Did you get it out?

mike coletta

If the tumbler came out with "5 springs" separate, then there could be other problems. There is a thin retainer, that holds the springs down, which puts pressure on the "pins". If that broke, then the whole thing is toast. You might find a locksmith that can fix it. If I misread this then ignore. Also, you have to go in from the back of the switch to get to the contacts.

dewhurstaj

Yes, 5 small springs came out w/ the tumbler.
i called a locksmith & he told me to call a mechanic!
If the tumbler is shot & stuck in the switch it may have to be drilled out.
I hate the idea of destroying the tumbler but it maybe the only way to save the switch.
Thanks!
Andy