ignition switch/key problem(HELP)

[72Z/28]

Hey guys, I am having a problem with my ignition switch/key. I used to work fine, but all of a sudden the ignition switch does not go back to LOCK postion, and the key does not go all the way in. In other words, the car can be started without the key being in.

This problem happened after the guy at the shop had hooked all Dakota Digital Gauges wires to the control box terminals.

I guess the car used to have automatic transmission, and It was replaced with 4 speed manual.

I DON't know what on earth went wrong . The ignition switch/key used to work fine even with the wires being disconnected from Dakota control box.



Does this problem have anything to do with connecting the wires or could it be a problem with the ignition switch itself??


Any ideas guys, Thanks in advance.

[6'9"Witha69]

You are describing a mechanical, not electrical issue. When it was converted, was it from a column shift? If so, try moving (rotating) the outer housing near the dash CCW. This may release the locking mechanism which ensured the car was in Park in order to remove the key. My car can do the same as it too was a factory auto column shift car.

[72Z/28]

You are describing a mechanical, not electrical issue. When it was converted, was it from a column shift? If so, try moving (rotating) the outer housing near the dash CCW. This may release the locking mechanism which ensured the car was in Park in order to remove the car. My car can do the same as it too was a factory auto column shift car.

Actually I am not sure if the car used to have automatic transmission. It is not a column shift(do you mean shifter lever is on the steering column). I am just guessing that it has ben converted to manual because I noticed a slight modification on the transmission tunel openning for the shifter lever.

[72Z/28]

You are describing a mechanical, not electrical issue. When it was converted, was it from a column shift? If so, try moving (rotating) the outer housing near the dash CCW. This may release the locking mechanism which ensured the car was in Park in order to remove the car. My car can do the same as it too was a factory auto column shift car.

Thanks 6'9"Witha69 , it was exactly like you described. I turned the housing near the dash CCW, and it did release the locking mechanism.

The thing is that I can remove the key even when the car is running..It does not sound normal to me.

The good thing is that the key has to be in in order to turn the ignition switch.

[6'9"Witha69]

Thanks 6'9"Witha69 , it was exactly like you described. I turned the housing near the dash CCW, and it did release the locking mechanism.

The thing is that I can remove the key even when the car is running..It does not sound normal to me.

The good thing is that the key has to be in in order to turn the ignition switch.

The lock to hold it in is worn. Mine did this too for about 6 months before it seized. I see a new lock cylinder in your future.

[PARKERRS]

Even floor shifted automatics still used a linkage rod to the column this is how they facilitated a shift lock with the ign. lock.

[HILROD]

Even if the rods have been moved, the upper part of the column will still move. If it moves the neutral saftey switch thinks it is in gear. Try grabbing the column where the shifter was and move it counter clockwise. It might be hard to do. P.S. this also works as anti theft. If the column is moved far enough, it won't start.