Ignition problems

[yellowdog5]

I think maybe I need to replace both the ignition cylinder and the switch on my 1979 Silverado. Here's what has happened: Two times in the past week or so the ignition failed to connect when I turned the key to the start position, but when I tried again it started both times. Today it failed to connect on the first try, on the second try the cylinder would not unlock. I tried several times to get it to unlock, then finally I removed the key, reinserted it and everything is working fine. Suggestions? Also I am afraid to take it anywhere before I fix it for fear it will leave me stranded, what do you think? Also where can I get OEM parts? I can find the cylinder but not the switch.

 

[Goldie Driver]

I think maybe I need to replace both the ignition cylinder and the switch on my 1979 Silverado. Here's what has happened: Two times in the past week or so the ignition failed to connect when I turned the key to the start position, but when I tried again it started both times. Today it failed to connect on the first try, on the second try the cylinder would not unlock. I tried several times to get it to unlock, then finally I removed the key, reinserted it and everything is working fine. Suggestions? Also I am afraid to take it anywhere before I fix it for fear it will leave me stranded, what do you think?

I would think lock cylinder, not ignition switch as unlock issues are more typically lock cylinder. Or, a worn key - have you tried another?

Ignition switch pic, FYI- did that today.

 

[DoubleDingo]

If you looked on rock auto, I too had difficulty finding a replacement ignition switch. It's on there, but it's a weird wording on their end. I found it easier by going to my year, make and model, then typing ignition switch in the search bar. Mine just started doing the intermittent no-contact when trying to start. Doesn't help that my right thumb is messed up and I don't have full clamping force with that thumb for turning the key.

 

[Ricko1966]

I think maybe I need to replace both the ignition cylinder and the switch on my 1979 Silverado. Here's what has happened: Two times in the past week or so the ignition failed to connect when I turned the key to the start position, but when I tried again it started both times. Today it failed to connect on the first try, on the second try the cylinder would not unlock. I tried several times to get it to unlock, then finally I removed the key, reinserted it and everything is working fine. Suggestions? Also I am afraid to take it anywhere before I fix it for fear it will leave me stranded, what do you think? Also where can I get OEM parts? I can find the cylinder but not the switch.

Sounds like the ignition rack has cracked.

 

[yellowdog5]

Sounds like the ignition rack has cracked.

Do you meant the housing? This is what came up when I searched: https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog...,1051805,ignition,ignition+lock+housing,12030

 

[Edelbrock]

Spray some WD40 into the lock cylinder. And make sure you turn the key all the way when trying to start.

 

[Ricko1966]

One of the legs on it cracks,then it flexes and doesn't move the ignition switch through it's range of motion gets hung on things etc,so you have to try and try and play with it until you get lucky,but soon the other leg breaks then there is no more getting lucky. As you see it is geared to the back of the ignition lock cylinder,and moves the rod for the electrical portion. If I had a mechanical problem and an electrical problem I'd be very suspicious.