Question I have an 83Buick column in my street rod. This weekend I pulled in for gas, turned off the key, when I went to restart it, the key would not turn. I have had this problem happen on other occasions. I don't remember what I did on previous times to get it to release however I pulled the key and reinserted it and the column unlocked thus allowing me to start.
Is there something specific I should do to solve this or is it a case of a older column, and the key not triggering the safety rod.
thanks for you help and advice.
Jim Roberts
AnswerHello Jim,
I've come across all kinds of different problems where the key won't turn. Most of the time, with the 80's GM columns, the ignition key lock assembly simply wear out causing them either to be sticky or not turn at all. I am assuming you tried moving the steering wheel back and forth to make sure it isn't the wheel lock pin binding in the column.
If you tried turning the wheel back and forth slightly while turning the key and that does not release the key switch to turn, I would bet the key lock assembly needs replacing. There is a diagram of a similar column in a post of mine within the last day or two that will help you disassemble the column. I'm sure you will be able to find it if you go back and look at the past questions (7/4 or 7/5).
Hope that helps and let me know if I can be of further assistance.
Have a great day!
-Jay
