Ignition Switch Install Addendum (Or What I learned the Hard Way).

[jackatg450]

I followed the Install Instructions, was careful of the tabs, etc. What I learned the hard way:

It is easier to go ahead and remove the left bottom dash and loosen the the right bottom dash. Picture 1. It is easier to remove the switch cover without breaking things, and much easier to install after exchanging the switch.

Before you remove the switch, tape the key housing so that it cannot move. (If the battery light is on all the time after install, you are one notch off. Don't ask how I know this).

Dicktator had 2 very good tips. 1. Put the switch in the "Run" Position, (I suggest tape it so it cannot move). Move the notches on the new switch to the spring loaded position (that is Start), release, now you are in "Run" on the new switch. 2. After installing the switch, push the silver cylinder (Picture #2 blue arrow) rotate the switch, if installed correctly, the line on the key housing will align with the edge of the top housing.(Picture #3).

When the instructions say "Pull down on the switch and wiggle it, it will drop down." IT WON"T. There are two white catches on the sides of the switch that have to be depressed. #Picture #4&5). Continued next post. Oh Yes, if the switch you are installing is all black, it is the old style, the new ones are grey and black--that from The Dicktator.

[Doug Allen]

Sorry you went through all that Jack.

I wrote the original procedure, and I've swapped out at least fifty switches using the same procedure. Never had the problems you described, but I don't doubt that you had trouble. I guess there's always the tough one out there.....

[jackatg450]

Push in the holes with a small flat blade screwdriver. (Picture number #6) Now the switch will drop down. Be sure you have cut the tye wrap on the bundle of wires coming into the connector to the switch. (and be sure to replace when re-installing.).

When installing the bottom cover, make sure these two catches on the back of the cover are aligned and inserted (Picture #9)

My truck did not have the 2 screws installed on the bottom of the housing (Picture #7). I understand some do, some don't. If they were not installed, the bottom and top covers will not close properly leaving an unsightly gap, the catches are not strong enough to hold the bottom cover up. Chevrolet doesn't list the screws. I used what I had in the bin. I put an anchor in the drilled hole for the forward screw because the hole was not tapped.( Picture #8)

Hope this helps.

Jack

[jackatg450]

Thanks Doug. The next one for me will be easy, this one was a bitch. Especially trying to get the housings to stay together. I had just about decided to call Byers and order new housings. Then I decided to install the two screws on the bottom. Solved the problem.

See you next month!

Jack

[ryan40601]

Is the ignition switch available through chevy dealers or is it a hard to find item
I have had no problems as of yet . What indicators should I look for and does anyone
Have the part # thanks in advance

Bob

[MnMsToy]

Originally Posted by ryan40601

Is the ignition switch available through chevy dealers or is it a hard to find item
I have had no problems as of yet . What indicators should I look for and does anyone
Have the part # thanks in advance

Bob

They are available at the Chevy dealer. Many chevy models use the same switch. I just carry a spare because they are only about $35

[xoxoxoBruce]

Originally Posted by ryan40601

Is the ignition switch available through chevy dealers or is it a hard to find item
I have had no problems as of yet . What indicators should I look for and does anyone
Have the part # thanks in advance

Bob

Symptoms could be strange and mysterious electrical happenings, cut out on the road, or it could be flat out won't start. That's why it's good to carry a spare with the instructions, so you don't get stranded.

Even if you feel you don't want to tackle the installation yourself, it's still easier to find someone who can, than to find the switch/instructions in the middle of nowhere.