lost key! how to replace the ignition switch

[bikeboy0826]

Hi Everyone.
I'm almost finished with the two year restoration/build of my '82 Scrambler.
I misplaced the keys sometime in the last two years.
The chilton's manual says that I need the keys in order to remove, and replace the ignition switch. Does anyone have any ideas?
Thanks for the help.

 

[Randyzzz]

You have to pull the steering wheel, the lock plate, and move the turn signal switch out of the way. Then there;s either a screw that holds the lock cylinder in place, or a slot with a tab to depress to release the cylinder. With the screw, there's no need for the key. With the tab, a sturdy screwdriver and a few loving hammer taps usually do the trick. Check the web for GM column pics- our columns are the same as old Chev's.

Here's a pioc of the screw type-

 

[Bogged]

You have to pull the steering wheel, the lock plate, and move the turn signal switch out of the way. Then there;s either a screw that holds the lock cylinder in place, or a slot with a tab to depress to release the cylinder. With the screw, there's no need for the key. With the tab, a sturdy screwdriver and a few loving hammer taps usually do the trick. Check the web for GM column pics- our columns are the same as old Chev's.

Here's a pioc of the screw type-

Are you aiming for the tab as in hammering it towards the firewall or...?

 

[okjeep]

you will want to procure a steering plate spring compression tool ($10 or so at napa) to get the snap ring off the steering shaft to gain access to the key housing. You can do it without it with strong thumbs and lots of patience. The tool makes life much easier. Plus you should get a steering wheel puller if you don't have one as well.

If you have a tilt column, it's a great time to tighten the three torx screws at the pivot.

 

[Challenger]

Lock Cylinder

Hey bikerboy

Todd here, I just replaced a ignition lock cylinder in a 82 CJ8 on Sunday. If you need any help call me at 303-478-5471 and I can walk you thru it. Napa carries the lock cylinder but it must be made of gold they were asking $44.99, Checker wanted $29.99 call around, Advanced Auto wants $18.99. I still have the box and can get you the part number. Can't remember but where do you live again. Todd

 

[Randyzzz]

If it's the tab style I think it releases when it;s pressed towards the firewall. Th pic is of the screw type, which is what I think you will have.

 

[DC CJ8]

I just wanted to say that this thread "inspired" me to run out and replace my lock cylinder. I had no idea how to get that thing out only using Chilton and Haynes, Thanks to all. Total time was under an hour.
Todd

 

[Randyzzz]

 

[CHIEFWAHO]

Thought maybe I'd add some pic's that might help someone down the road.

First disconnect battery

Steering wheel puller

Removing steering wheel

Removing lock plate ring with spring compressoin tool

Lock ring slid up using small screw drives and scratch awl.

Lock Plate removed

Turn signal lever removed. Notice plastic is broke, pretty common.
I didn't replace cause I didn't have one on hand.

 

[CHIEFWAHO]

continued:

I popped the turn signal connector from the holder on steering column to allow enough slack to pull up.

Move turn signal switch out of way.

With switch out of way push tab in with screw driver and lock should slide out.

Black tab is what locks it in place

Slide new lock in place and reassemble in reverse order.

 

[USCG_Diver]

Thank God for experience, good direcetions and photos!!! Piece of cake.

 

[Joeslock]

If you have the stock ignition it will have a code on it after you remove it. You can then have a key cut to code and it will match the doors. (if doors are stock)
ALWAYS write down the code or any numbers stamped on the original ignition.
If your ignition is dead you can have the new ign. re-wafered to match your doors so you only need one key.
I can probably break even on these ignitions at $30 shipped. $70 re-wafered to your original key. (you must send me your old ignition)

 

[certifiablejeep]

I just replaced the blinker today, so I was one step shy of doing this... so there are some more pics here if you need additional ones.

http://certifiablejeep.com/Reclamation/reclamation5.php

cb

 

[V3X8Te]

replaced locking cylinder in my cj7, really easy thanks to this thread