Working to "rebuild" steering column and box

[busmania]

Having never owned one of these before I have some questions. My 40 came with the key in the ignition. It was stuck but after a few weeks soaking in some pb blaster, I was able to get it to turn. Wahoo! But in looking for a new ignition cylinder I am finding they are all sold out. This got me to thinking of just using my original. But, my question is, does the key have anything to do with electronics? Im sure mine is shot if so but if all my key does is unlock the column, I may just re use what I have.

How does one start one of these cars? Once I get it all back together. Turn key>turn switch on column to on> then what?

Sorry for the dumb questions. Someone spray painted my column and steering wheel a terrible blue color so I want to refurbish it all. I'm wondering if I should re build my steering box while it is out or if I should install it and see how it works first. Thoughts?

[Ken/Alabama]

All the key does is unlock the column and switch. Taking one of these apart is a difficult task if you’ve never done it.

[busmania]

So if it is working to unlock the column, I should not replace it right? Thank you.

Is the only electronic part the push button?

[Ken/Alabama]

I would not. Why fix it if it’s working ? Once you unlock it and flip the switch on it sends current to the ignition. The button energizes the starter.

[busmania]

Originally Posted by Ken/Alabama

I would not. Why fix it if it’s working ?

I think I just assumed it was like a modern switch and contained electrical components and assumed it would not work Based on age and how much penetration fluid I sprayed down it. Now that I have it apart I’m starting to see ALL it seems to do is lock the off/on switch.

So, to start these cars does one turn the key to unlock on/off switch. Flip to on and hit the button?

[Brian]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

So, to start these cars does one turn the key to unlock on/off switch. Flip to on and hit the button?

yes! And actually, there is no need to turn the key unless you're locking the vehicle. I leave my key in place at all times [in the unlocked position] and merely use the ignition switch [on/off toggle] to turn on/off the engine

[cas3]

All good info from Brian as usual. I will add, the weak point of the old switch is the guts inside the back side of the switch. take the screws out, and see the condition of the plastic board where the switch travels, and the arm that moves between the contacts. They wear out, and new or NOS are available

[deuce lover]

Here is a pic of the back side with the switch box intact.The lock cyl unlocks the column and frees up the lever.When you flip the lever it moves a brush in that box to activate or turn on the ign.The chrome button is just a cap on end of mechanism ,moves in and out when the key is turned-has no other function.

[petehoovie]

Originally Posted by deuce lover

Here is a pic of the back side with the switch box intact.The lock cyl unlocks the column and frees up the lever.When you flip the lever it moves a brush in that box to activate or turn on the ign.The chrome button is just a cap on end of mechanism ,moves in and out when the key is turned-has no other function.