Can't always get key out

[no-logic]

Hi guys. I have a '97 Blazer and often times the key won't return all the way to the off position and I can't get the key out. After playing with it for awhile it will turn to the off position and the key comes out. Anyone have any suggestions as to where to start looking? Is there an interlock tied in with the console shifter? (Automatic) Or could it be the ignition switch or tumbler? When this happens the tumbler stops in the first position from the off position. In other words the first click from the off position. And it is solid....there is no forcing it any further.

[Tangent]

Yes, there is an interlock which prevents you from turning the key entirely off and removing the key if you don't have the shifter in park.

[no-logic]

Originally Posted by Tangent

Yes, there is an interlock which prevents you from turning the key entirely off and removing the key if you don't have the shifter in park.

Do you know if it is adjustable and if so where the adjustment would be?

[Tangent]

'fraid not...

[dirtty]

did you ever figure out how to fix the problem with the key? I have a 98 and the same thing has started to happen to me.

[no-logic]

There is a switch on the shifter under the console that operates the solenoid in the column and I cleaned the connections with some electrical cleaner. It hasn't acted up again yet but it is too early to tell.

[dirtty]

When you say you cleaned the connection are to talking about the plug? I took the console about last night and I saw the switch I think you are talking about but the only thing I could see attached to it was the plug on a wiring harness. This is starting to drive me nuts!!

[no-logic]

Originally Posted by dirtty

When you say you cleaned the connection are to talking about the plug? I took the console about last night and I saw the switch I think you are talking about but the only thing I could see attached to it was the plug on a wiring harness. This is starting to drive me nuts!!

Yeah, the plug that goes into the switch from the front.

[dirtty]

thanks, I will give it a try this weekend

[no-logic]

Originally Posted by dirtty

thanks, I will give it a try this weekend

I'm still having trouble with mine anyway. Will have to look further.

[wafrederick]

The key might be wore out.You can get a new key made at the dealer and it is about five dollars to get it made.Inspect the key also.All you need is the vin number off the vehicle,just bring your insurance slip,etc for the vin number.

[no-logic]

Originally Posted by wafrederick

The key might be wore out.You can get a new key made at the dealer and it is about five dollars to get it made.Inspect the key also.All you need is the vin number off the vehicle,just bring your insurance slip,etc for the vin number.

I tried a new key.....same thing happens.

[bjanakos]

This happens to me too!

97 4x4

I will also note that this happens in conjunction with the check engine light and a slipping trans upon excelleration. I checked the fault codes once and I got something referring to the torque conferter. I will check the codes again and list them properly. This is certainly a mystery.

[drdd]

bjanakos ...

This is most likely your ignition switch going bad. This happened to me. On mine it caused the whole engine to just shut off randomly and was very dangerous. Has also been known to cause false transmission codes and other strange problems. Do a search on this forum and the GMC Jimmy forum for '97 ignition switch' and you will see what I mean. It's a very common problem on 97's.

It's possible to fix yourself if you are mechanically inclined and have the patience (and the lower back) to be working under your steering column.

Good luck !

Originally Posted by bjanakos

This happens to me too!

97 4x4

I will also note that this happens in conjunction with the check engine light and a slipping trans upon excelleration. I checked the fault codes once and I got something referring to the torque conferter. I will check the codes again and list them properly. This is certainly a mystery.

[bjanakos]

Here are the trouble codes........

P0171 System Too Lean (Bank 1)
P0174 System Too Lean (Bank 2)
P0740 Torque Converter Clutch Circuit
P1860 Unknown Powertrain DTC (Manufacturer Controlled; Transmission)
P0753 Shift Solenoid "A" Electrical
P0758 Shift Solenoid "B" Electrical
P0785 Shift/Timing Solenoid