Intermittent Locking Ignition Switch: Resolutions?

[SP3]

Group,

The ignition switch on my ‘69 often locks in the position required to remove the key preventing starting of the car until after rotating key back and forth several times and I think turning the steering wheel helps. Not every time but mostly when I am rushing to get somewhere or taking a bird for a ride in it- figures.

This condition is not initiated by turning the key all the way back to “lock” or I believe it is labeled “garage”. Just first position after turning off engine that allows removing key from cylinder.

Is this a common problem and I hope not too involved fix? Hoping I don’t have to swap in a late model switch as the car is very original.

If the fix is to replace the ignition switch, does anyone have a spare?

Thanks

[pebbles]

Lube the deadbolt.

[bobd]

When the steering column deadbolt engages it can bind if the steering wheel is turned. Moving the steering wheel slightly one direction or the other will let it unlock. Try turning the switch off with the steering wheel pointed straight ahead. The turn the wheel until you hear a click - that should be where it binds.

[jrusso07]

My 70 does this too...My joints don't work so well as I age either.

[theunz]

My 70 does this too...My joints don't work so well as I age either.

Are you referring to the one in Frank's hand because I hear the're suspossed to work much better now!

[68DSU]

This sounds like the bolt issue but I had a similar lock issue once. Seems the key was worn and didn't push the plates inside the lock enough to disengage them. The quick fix (probably not the best) was to remove the cylinder, put in the key and file the plates flush. It would have been better to try to get a key that fit the lock but I made the lock fit the key.

[jrusso07]

My 70 does this too...My joints don't work so well as I age either.

Are you referring to the one in Frank's hand because I hear the're suspossed to work much better now!

I lol

[SP3]

Thanks for the replies on this.

What is involved in lubing the deadbolt? Will check the Tech Wiki section for this.