[DeTomaso] New observation, was Re: Ignition switch

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 1/3/16 9:53:33 AM, guido_detomaso at prodigy.net writes:


> But I did realize, once I get the key past accessory to ignition, 
> sometimes using a small crescent wrench now, it easily goes back and forth from 
> ignition to accessory and back again.  Only going back to lock restarts the 
> sequence of near impossible to get from accessory to ignition.
> Not going to solve this problem on-line, but wonder if this proves 
> anything, electrical switch vs. mechanical tumbler thing.
> 

>>>First of all, crescent wrenches and ignition keys don't mix.   That's 
how you wind up with a two-piece key. :<(

I have heard of difficulty going from the "OFF" position to the accessory 
position--that involves overcoming a cam inside the switch, and releasing the 
steering lock.   But once those hurdles are overcome, there is really 
nothing that should be preventing free and easy movement between the accessory 
and run positions????

What's especially odd is that you say movement back and forth between 
accessory and run is free and easy until you turn the key off.   Then the 
difficulty returns?   Are you sure the problem isn't going from off to accessory?   
That's the standard failure mode.

Assuming your description is accurate, it is certainly unique I think.   
For sure, your first step should be liberally spraying lock spray (available 
at any good auto parts or hardware store) in there (it makes a mess, be ready 
with paper towels) and working the switch back and forth.   If you still 
have difficulties, remove the electrical portion from the mechanical portion 
and see if it changes.   That's a simple bubble sort that will determine if 
the problem lies in the electrical portion, or the mechanical portion.   If 
it all works smoothly when the electrical bit is removed, then the problem 
lies there....

Let us know what you find out?

Mike
-------------- next part --------------
   In a message dated 1/3/16 9:53:33 AM, guido_detomaso at prodigy.net
   writes:

     But I did realize, once I get the key past accessory to ignition,
     sometimes using a small crescent wrench now, it easily goes back and
     forth from ignition to accessory and back again.  Only going back to
     lock restarts the sequence of near impossible to get from accessory
     to ignition.
     Not going to solve this problem on-line, but wonder if this proves
     anything, electrical switch vs. mechanical tumbler thing.

   >>>First of all, crescent wrenches and ignition keys don't mix.  That's
   how you wind up with a two-piece key. :<(
   I have heard of difficulty going from the "OFF" position to the
   accessory position--that involves overcoming a cam inside the switch,
   and releasing the steering lock.  But once those hurdles are overcome,
   there is really nothing that should be preventing free and easy
   movement between the accessory and run positions????
   What's especially odd is that you say movement back and forth between
   accessory and run is free and easy until you turn the key off.  Then
   the difficulty returns?  Are you sure the problem isn't going from off
   to accessory?  That's the standard failure mode.
   Assuming your description is accurate, it is certainly unique I think.
   For sure, your first step should be liberally spraying lock spray
   (available at any good auto parts or hardware store) in there (it makes
   a mess, be ready with paper towels) and working the switch back and
   forth.  If you still have difficulties, remove the electrical portion
   from the mechanical portion and see if it changes.  That's a simple
   bubble sort that will determine if the problem lies in the electrical
   portion, or the mechanical portion.  If it all works smoothly when the
   electrical bit is removed, then the problem lies there....
   Let us know what you find out?
   Mike