Classic/Antique Car Repair: Ignition Switch, 1967 chevelle ss, bench seat

Question
QUESTION: What is the easiest way to get to ignition switch to replace
it on a 1967 Chevelle SS?
ANSWER: I don't know exactly what you are asking.  The ignition switch is in view from the driver's seat, so there is no problem getting to it.  The switch is held into the dash by a bezel, which comes off the face of the switch, then the switch drops out from the back of the dash panel.  There is a multi-wire electrical connector on it, which must be unplugged, then the switch will fall out in your hand.

The bezel takes a special tool to undo it - if you don't have that tool, you will have to get it, or make one, or take the car to a locksmith and get him to remove it for you.

If this isn't what you were asking about, ask again and give me a bit more to go on.

Sorry if I didn't guess right.

Dick

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Is there an easier way to get behind the dash panel?
I can't get my hand up under the dash panel from the
bottom to plug in and replace with new switch.

Answer
Sorry, Allen.  I don't know of any other way.  Perhaps you can enlist the help of someone with a smaller hand?  If the car has factory AC, it might help to take off the driver's side air tube - I don't recall exactly how it disconnects from the main AC unit, but I know it isn't too hard to remove.  That will give you a bit more room under there.

When I have to work on cars with really tight clearances under the dash, I find that removing the front seat is a very easy and quick way to get better access - at least you'd be more comfortable lying on the carpet!  This all depends on how big you are (I'm over 6 feet and 240 lbs, and not too limber anymore, so I need lots of room.)

Each bucket seat lifts out after you remove the 4 nuts that are under the floor. If it has power seat, you'll have to unplug one wire also.  You only need to lift out the driver's side seat.  If you have a bench seat, it is just as easy -the seat is bigger, but about the same weight, and probably is not a power seat, which makes it lighter.

Beyond those ideas, I have no other thoughts.

Dick