QuestionQUESTION: I've had my 79 coupe in storage for a year. Went to start it today and the ignition switch wouldn't turn to engage the starter. It turns counter clockwise to acc(?), but won't turn clockwise to start. Steering wheel is also locked and I can't move the gear selector out of park. Any idea as to what happened and how to fix it?
ANSWER: Hello,
The problem can be simple to fix. I am wondering if the wheels are turned in such a way that there is excessive pressure on the steering wheel lock pin.
Try turning the steering wheel with pressure both ways one side at a time while rotating the igntion lock to on using the winged thumb tab.
Let me know if this works.
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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: The wheels were straight and the ignition was locked solid. Tried putting pressure on the steering wheel several times. Nothing happened. Kicked the front tires. Tried again later and steering wheel unlocked and ignition turned. Car started right up. Only problem is that the key doesn't want to "spring" back from start to run position. It must be manually turned back. Perhaps its corroded? Sprayed some lube in the ignition switch, hope it helps. Thank you for your advice, it stopped me from needlessly disassembling the column. Any comments on the ignition switch? Thanks again.
AnswerHello,
If it does not spring back, the problem is not the lock cylinder and it is the internal locking mechanisms.
The column may have to be gone over eventually and if you have never worked on one, you will not get it back together. I still on occasion go through these steering columns and repair them when they are sent to me.
Try it for a while and if you continue to have problems contact me.
Http://www.autotheftexpert.com
