Ignition Switch Problem

[BananaSlug]

My '79 Ford E-150 (with only 110,000 original miles) has the ignition switch in the dash. The first time I try to start it after it sits overnight the key won't turn the ignition cylinder. It acts like it's jammed and I have to giggle the key and work it back and forth for several minutes before it finally turns. It's parked outside overnight (too tall to fit under the garage door) and it doesn't matter what the temperature is out.

After I drive it awhile it seems to be okay for the rest of the day. It's been a bit notchy for a long time and lately it's been worse. It's like that with the spare key so I don't think it's a worn key issue.

[shorod]

That's the first time I've heard of a ticklish key!

It might not be the key that's worn, but rather the tumblers in the key cylinder switch itself.

Does your truck have a separate door key from the ignition key? If so, you might try finding a new replacement key cylinder switch and just changing it out. Since it's mounted in the dash I doubt that it locks the steering column or anything fancy like that.

-Rod

[BananaSlug]

Originally Posted by shorod

That's the first time I've heard of a ticklish key!

It might not be the key that's worn, but rather the tumblers in the key cylinder switch itself.

Does your truck have a separate door key from the ignition key? If so, you might try finding a new replacement key cylinder switch and just changing it out. Since it's mounted in the dash I doubt that it locks the steering column or anything fancy like that.

-Rod

I removed the lock cylinder from the ignition and flushed it out good with lots of WD-40. Unfortunately it didn't work, and the thing jammed for good.

I went over to the local auto parts store and they sold me a replacement lock cylinder with 2 Ford style keys for about $10. That adds another key to my ring but it seems to work okay now. I'm going to buy a second one and carry it in my tool box for a spare, just in case. Thanks for your advice.