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Old 04-24-2018, 02:34 PM   #1
draggin49
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Default Problem with key /ignition.

I went to start my 32 roadster this morning and it was dead , I had left the keys in it and must’ve forgotten to flip the switch to the left for off. The part I can’t figure out is the key doesn’t want to come out. Instead of being able to turn it the full range it normally and has always gone now it wants to only go part way which isn’t letting me be able to remove the key or flip the toggle switch. Ideas ?
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Old 04-24-2018, 02:54 PM   #2
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

I had an issue with the original key in my '41, lubed the lock and jiggled the key and finally got it out. I then had 32Phil make me a new key from the door key code, works great, if I try the original key it sticks, so I keep for a spare only.
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Old 04-24-2018, 03:03 PM   #3
draggin49
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

Suggestions on what to lube the ignition with? I gotta go to auto part store so I can pick that up while I get other stuff I need
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Old 04-24-2018, 03:11 PM   #4
Charlie Stephens
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

Have you tried moving the steering wheel back and forth a little?

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Old 04-24-2018, 03:26 PM   #5
draggin49
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

Yeah Charlie I tried that cuz it has worked previously when it was being difficult.
Guess I gotta see if they have a battery tender . It’s a newer optima so hopefully it’ll still be good .
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Old 04-24-2018, 03:27 PM   #6
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

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If you need to lube the lock try "Lock- ease". You can get it at any hardware store. Also do as Charlie Stephens says by moving the steering wheel back and forth to try to lock and unlock it.
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Old 04-24-2018, 03:28 PM   #7
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

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Originally Posted by draggin49 View Post
Suggestions on what to lube the ignition with? I gotta go to auto part store so I can pick that up while I get other stuff I need
Dry graphite is what was recommended
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Old 04-24-2018, 06:44 PM   #8
draggin49
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

Used some dry graphite , she still won’t budge . Tried wiggling and moving steering wheel back and forth while wiggling, still no luck . What should I do next ?
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Old 04-24-2018, 08:44 PM   #9
Lawson Cox
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

Keep on doing what you're doing. Patience pays off when fooling with these old Fords.
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Old 04-25-2018, 01:51 PM   #10
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

I would remove the switch box on the back of the column drop, including the small sheet metal plate that guides the pin.
I wonder if the bakelite wiper has overheated and swelled up..... not allowing the parts to move freely. Make sure the battery is disconnected during surgery.
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Old 04-25-2018, 02:19 PM   #11
JM 35 Sedan
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

Some of todays aftermarket contact plates, that attach to the bottom of the sheetmetal switch housing, are no longer molded using phenolic/bakelite material. They are being molded with thermoplastic materials which melt at lower temperatures. For that reason, I use NOS or good used original terminal plates in the ignition switches for my cars.
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Old 04-25-2018, 02:38 PM   #12
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

Once you get the key out and the battery charged, you might want to check your coil.
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Old 05-10-2018, 02:30 AM   #13
draggin49
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

***Update ***
Went to mess with the key in hopes to get it out and I’m not sure if it just took some time for the dry graphite to work it’s magic but I got the key out and I’m able to start/turn off my car . So I think I’m back in business! Thanks again for everyone’s help
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Old 05-10-2018, 07:06 AM   #14
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Default Re: Problem with key /ignition.

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Suggestions on what to lube the ignition with? I gotta go to auto part store so I can pick that up while I get other stuff I need
Graphite- shake it and blow the dust in cyl. dob a little on the key when you get it out and then work it a little.
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