RM1964

I will try to make as much sense with my question as possible. Why doesn’t the ignition switch (first picture) have the three locking tabs like picture two. The wire harness connector (picture three) has the tangs(whatever those things are called) to lock it in.

2blu442

Nobody has replied yet, so I'll give this a stab. Every 64-65 I've seen has the tabs on the wiring plug that fit into the openings of the ignition switch. I'm guessing the switch without them is from a later year or different model. GM didn't put the ignition switch in the column until 1969. So the switch without the places for the tabs may be from a 1966-68 car. John

therobski

If you can look closely at the picture of my 64 F-85 switch,

it has the 3 tabs, that would be the correct switch.

RM1964

Well.....you both made statements I would have to agree with. The switch in pic#2 is the one I had to pull out of the dash in my 64 (since it fried). The switch in pic#1 is an extra I have had for years, (not 100% sure what it came out of) along with other misc extra parts. I have replaced wiring harness' over the last few years with OE replacements (comparing new to original-they seem to match).
OPGI sells replacement switch for 64, but it does not have ears for locking tabs. They sell switch for 66-67 with tabs. I bought 66-67 switch, and of course it didn't work. The internal component would not allow my key tumbler to mate up. Fusick apparently only sells a switch for 66-67. UGH

therobski

https://www.ebay.com/p/Standard-US54...d=352670148094

Also call Ames Performance-the Pontiac people. Ask them if the 64-65 Tempest/GTO has the 3 tabs or ears on the switch. I bought a ton 64-65 GTO interchangeable of parts from them for my 64 F-85 build and very good prices.
64-65 Chevelle or Skylark may be the same too.

nicks1966

here are two more options one used , one listed as NOS

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1964-Chevel...UAAOSwX2Jc60E4

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1964-Chevel...AAAOSw~qdc6z13

therobski

I may the NOS piece for a spare..

RM1964

Thanks for the ebay links. Looks promising. I searched the ames-performance website, and their switches (64-65) are without tabs. However after looking at ebay, ames, and even classic industries...........I am starting to have a strong suspicion that the ignition switch would be tab-less if the car had no A/C. hence, with tabs if car had A/C. In other words, the battle (for me anyway) to get correct/quality replacement parts goes on.

therobski

RM1964 Call the folks listed in the thread and ask. Pictures on the net in most cases are not correct. My picture I sent you is a very base F-85, no A/C , granny car just has a AM radio and a heater and it has the 3 ears/tabs on the the switch. Getter done and move to the next issue! over and out...