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.

 

[yellowdog5]

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.

Thank you i found it under "electrical"

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.

Thank you I see now. I think I may have inadvertently backed the key out a teeny bit and thought the cylinder wouldn't unlock. I think if I am going to fix it I probably should just get all of these parts. Is there anything else that should be replaced while it is apart?

 

[DoubleDingo]

Thank you i found it under "electrical"

Thank you I see now. I think I may have inadvertently backed the key out a teeny bit and thought the cylinder wouldn't unlock. I think if I am going to fix it I probably should just get all of these parts. Is there anything else that should be replaced while it is apart?

Just the rack and if anything is broke in the column that is included in the kit. It's not incredibly difficult, but don't rush it.

 

[Ricko1966]

Thank you i found it under "electrical"

Thank you I see now. I think I may have inadvertently backed the key out a teeny bit and thought the cylinder wouldn't unlock. I think if I am going to fix it I probably should just get all of these parts. Is there anything else that should be replaced while it is apart?

I wouldn't mess with the key and tumbler(I dont see an issue). I also am lazy So I'd buy an electrical part of the ignition switch. Next time it fails I'd push the original electrical part into crank mode with a screwdriver. If that works order and change the rack,(the rack isnt moving the switch enough),if it doesn't start, then plug in the new electrical portion leave the old one where it is,just unplug it,plug in the new one cycle it with a screwdriver,go home change it when convenient.

 

[yellowdog5]

I can't find an OEM switch, I have had bad luck with aftermarket electrical parts for this truck in the past, suggestions for what brand I should buy?

 

[DoubleDingo]

Standard brand seems good quality. The make the Blue Streak line

 

[legopnuematic]

To note with Standard motor products, part numbers with a T are their lower tier parts.

You must be registered for see images attach

 

[AuroraGirl]

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.

if the issue were to persist with turning force, decoupling the starter engagement from the key switch is a minor anti-theft thing one could do and it would benefit if you had high compression because you could also switch the ignition on/off with another switch or just the tumbler to crank the engine separate the key or another switch without ignition then turn it on while its rotating, or just have a button to rotate it to save on your hand having to turn the key to crank.