The ignition switch in my 1969 Cutlass is desperately in need of replacing. The key is so worn that I cannot get a replacement made, no matter how hard the key cutter and I tried.

So, I bought this replacement: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...#ht_1522wt_939



Does anyone have any advice on the "in's & out's" of replacing an ignition switch? Any pitfalls, or "make sure you don't..." tips are greatly appreciated.

Thanks fella's....

NS

 

The best thing you can do is get a Chassis Service Manual (CSM). The ignition switch removal/replacement is outlined and is very straight forward. Just follow the instructions and you will not have any problems.
Brian

 

I did mine on my 72. It's pretty straitforward. IIRC you do have to be able to turn the key to get the lock out.
The other issue is that you have to be able to push in the tab from the switch in the column to take out the cylinder. It's the tab on the top left of the pic. In order to get to that tab, I had to brake out a section of thin metal casting using a screwdriver.

 

The search function is your friend. Go to post # five in this thread:

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...-easy-way.html

 

I should add that swapping the ignition lock cylinder will make the ignition key and door key different. If you simply want a new key for your old lock cylinder, once you pull the cylinder you'll see a four character code stamped on the side. That code will let a dealership or locksmith cut a brand new key.

 

Wild About Cars has the '69 service manual online if you don't have one and want to get it done. There's more Oldsmobile stuff available for download every week, the other marques on the site aren't as dynamic, no pun intended.
If you don't have them you'll need a steering wheel puller and lock plate remover tools, cheap to buy and also available at most parts stores for loan.
If it's a tilt column with any of the looseness that GM columns get at the base it's a good time to take care of that too. You would also need a pivot pin remover tool for that, a few bucks. I've seen all three tools in the Sears Hardware tool section too, much to my amazement.
I periodically take in broken Craftsmen tools I pick up ay flea markets and garage sales and exchange them for new ones. Why change sockets when you can have a ratchet for every size?


http://wildaboutcarsonline.com/index.html

 

Here is how to do it on a '72 - not sure if that will help on your '69 but worth a look...
https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...tml#post155572

BTW, if you still have issues getting repro key blanks into working keys, the problem may be with the blanks. I got a bunch of miscut ones. Seems like the repro manufacurers cannot even make simple key blanks right...
However a dremel tool made them usable though.

 

Everything you will ever want to know about steering columns and more from a retired Saginaw design engineer (Jim Shea).

http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/?page_id=5