how to change keyswitch

[68 A]

hi,

i need the change the key switch on my dart to see if it is not supplying power to the ignition while cranking. It is a '70 Dart with a locking steering wheel, also is automatic with a column shifter. I disconnected the shifting lever and linkage in the engine bay when i put a hurst floor shifter in this winter.

I have another switch (came with the car) but i have no idea how to put it in. I looked at the new one and don't really see how to take it out, do i have to take part of the steering column apart? I'm hoping the chrome part that you see where the key goes in comes off and then it just slides out, but i can't tell.

Help!!

Thanks!

Steve

 

[RedFish]

There is an electric switch , seperate from the key cylinder part. The sterring wheel, etc.. has to come off to replace either. It's a somewhat complicated proceedure and a service manual detailed R&R would be best guide.
I'd make dang sure the problem is not elsewhere first. Checked the ballast resister or ignition module ?

 

[68 Sedan]

If all you want to do is check it, then unplug the original under the dash, plug in the new one, and give it a twist

 

[68 A]

ok, i have a new key cylinder, but i do not have a new electronic switch part. so i can't unplug the old one and try the new one. here is a link to the post that made me think that my switch is bad:

http://www.forabodiesonly.com/mopar/showthread.php?t=39026

if you have any other ideas about the problem, i would like to know

Thanks,

STeve

edit:
I also have a '68 Barracuda at my parents, the switch is in the dash, not the steering column. Could i pull that one out and try it in the dart? Does anyone know if they have the same wiring harness to connect them?

 

[RedFish]

.I also have a '68 Barracuda at my parents, the switch is in the dash, not the steering column. Could i pull that one out and try it in the dart? Does anyone know if they have the same wiring harness to connect them?

Dash mounted switch has a different connecter.

 

[68 Sedan]

Changing the key cylinder won't tell you anything. If the key turns, then the cylinder is ok. That tells you nothing about whether the switch is bad. If you think it is the actual switch, then what I said is still the quick way to check it.

 

['74 Sport]

Ditto what he said. I just took apart two steering columns so the switches and turn signal cams could be swapped out. It is a pain in the wazoo, so you want to eliminate any other possibilities before tackling the switch. And it is true, if the lock cylinder does turn, it is not the problem. All the lock cylinder does is rotate a pin protruding from the end of the ignition switch.

Jerry