Ignition switch problems

[EAGLE131909]

I'm new to the forum and in need of some assistance please. I have got a '84 G20 conversion van with a 305. Today I turned the ignition key and there was no resistance, the key did not kickback, it was basically what I would call freewheeling for lack of a better term. The fellow at the parts store said it was the cylinder (which I highly doubted) but I bought one just so I would have a new one when I reached that point in the column. Well, as I thought, same thing with new one. Using a pair of needle nose, I reached in the cylinder housing for the apparatus that turns and it also was free. It does release the steering wheel when I turned it with my needle nose, but still no contact (electrically) or return of the mechanism. It seems that something in the column is broken but I can't see it at this point.

I don't know if I explained this clearly, but did try Anyone got any advice please? I appreciate any responses that may help.

[brooster]

There is an actuator and a rod which link the ignition lock and related parts to the ignition switch. Before digging too deeply, stick your head under the dash. Using a flashlight try to locate the ignition switch which is mounted on top of the steering column. Make sure it is mounted securely and that the rod is in place.

You'll probably have a great amount of difficulty seeing this without loosening the upper column bolt/nuts, if not partially lowering the column.

More than likely, you'll have to do some exploratory surgery partially removing the turn signal switch and shift collar in order to see the actuator. You'll probably find the aluminum alloy actuator is broken.

[EAGLE131909]

brooster,

Excellent advice. The actuator rod was in fact broken. I appreciate your swift and generous help.

[brooster]

Glad to be of assistance.