Thread: ignition lock
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Old 01-07-2018, 11:24 AM   #15
dmsfrr
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Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Abq, NM
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Default Re: ignition lock

Quote:
Originally Posted by 56yblock View Post
ok thanks for the answer
do you think i must to change just the ignition lock cylinder?
how to remove it?

no body?
I haven't tried removing a key cylinder from the switch housing recently enough to be very helpful.
There's usually a small spring loaded pin that releases the key cylinder.

Disconnect a battery cable first. The switch assembly comes out of the dash by unscrewing the chrome bezel.
Note the small letters on the switch housing for each wire connection terminal. Use some masking tape to label the wires with that same letter before you remove them.

The electrical part of the switch itself may be worn out internally, or the lock cylinder may be too worn to turn the switch correctly.
A new switch may come without a key cylinder. You might be able to re-use yours, or if it has excessive wear it may be part of the *won't shut off* problem.

Using NOS / Made in USA parts is worth the trouble to find them. The places that supply restoration parts for '55/'57 Thunderbird's sell the replacement ignition switch for just under $40 and the key cylinder for $10.

A locksmith shop should be able to re-fit the tumblers of a new key cylinder to use your existing key.
Given the number of years since new, it is also possible the key itself (and other key cylinders on the car) are also quite worn out.

Here's a link to another recent Ignition Switch question that may(?) be helpful...
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=236176

.

Last edited by dmsfrr; 02-24-2018 at 06:27 PM.
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