Ignition switch

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pamp

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My problem was that my switch was real "iffy" One had to do some jiggling of the key to engage the starter. I installed a new switch and now cannot get the car to start with the key. I can start the car with the switch removed from the column by turning it with a screw driver. There is a quite a bit of slop regarding the key cylinder which is to say about 15 degrees of rotation before I can feel the actuator pin start to move. The result is not enough rotation to hit the start detent of the switch. How would one remove the key cylinder assembly from the column? Is this a job for the locksmith? Anyone with this problem before and what was the fix?
 
Switch

This was not the issue. Not enough rotation. I have sent the assembly down to Carl, as there is no local knowledge here as well as no parts. Carl said to me as he described the removal,"best to just shoot yourself" There are five screws that need to be removed. These are of the "shear off " variety. As to say that when they assemble the car these screws have a drive bit on them. Once to torque, the drive nut shears, leaving a flush screw. Impossible to remove without some effort. I started by using an automatic center punch, spring loaded, then proceeded with a very sharp and small chisel to loosen the screws. Once done, you must be brave and wedge the upper housing about 1/4 inch away from the steering shaft in order to pull the cylinder assembly. According to Carl...two pieces that could cause trouble...the intermediate section and then the key cylinder itself. It is my belief that the cylinder portion is worn out. OFC I call this, as in "Old f...cking car" Meanwhile, I can start and drive the car by using a screw driver to turn the switch...kindda like the old $50 dollar beater days...
 
Don´t know about the E9, but in the E3 theres two different types of ignition locks (differ in length) depending on the model year (switchover sometime in the early 90s).

And yeah, those screws are annoying. been there, done that.
 
Switch

Turns out it was the intermediate section...replaced by Carl N. and will be shipped back to me. About $80 for the part. Thanks to Carl and his expertise to resolve this problem...
 
switch fun...

Glad to hear you got the problem solved...as I will begin soon to try to sort mine out...Up to now lots of giggling, etc. But no cranky as of last try.
As to yours, I would have considered leaving the key in the ignition as a theft deterrent...and carrying a Swiss Army knife....Dave V. in NC
 
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