79 K5 Ignition switch and cylinder

[ramack]

My manual trans '79 K5 will not engage the starter when the ignition switch is in the start position. It acts like the clutch safety switch is not closed, which is not the case because a previous owner bypassed the switch. I'm guessing it's either the lock and cylinder or the electric switch. Possibly something with the wiring, but not likely. I've found my wiring diagram, and will begin troubleshooting tomorrow, maybe Saturday and have my son assist.

My question for the time being, which is more common to fail, the electrical switch or the lock and cylinder? I haven't had to replace either on either K5. Most info on the web is about replacing the cylinder, so based on that, the cylinder is most likely the issue.

 

[Wes Harden]

The lock cylinder doesn't do anything but turn the pinon gear for the rac an rod. If someone has been in the column say to tighten up the lower bowl screws the rac may be miss timed. If not then the switch is suspect. I just help another member with this. Unfortunately I miss remember witch way to move the switch.
The switch is adjustable 2 5/16" hex head screws hold to the column, loosen screws and push switch toward floor board. then try the key and see if it improves. If nothing changes remove screws, free switch from column and rod. Use a pocket screw driver to manually select the crank position. If it cranks then possibly the pinion and rod have miss aligned or broken a tooth. If no crank from manual test then the switch is bad, or not receiving voltage.

 

[Blue85]

Have a look here: https://ck5.com/forums/threads/1974-blazer-won’t-start.349996/#post-4362896

 

[ramack]

I was [finally] able to get to the K5 this evening. With my son's help, dropped the steering column to get access to the ignition switch. The push rod is moving, the switch is adjust as far aft as it will go and the start won't engage. However, if with a needle nose plier, move the rod fore a bit more, the starter engages. I'm going to bet that it's the switch and the contacts have worn. Starting to look for a switch to R&R.

 

[ramack]

DONE.

I must have ridden the mental short bus home from work this afternoon, ha. I'm guessing it took me just under an hour to realize that I was trying to install the replacement wrong. I was trying to install the switch with the connectors pointed up, instead of two the passenger side.

gm, buick, cadillac, chevrolet, oldsmobile, & pontiac GM Ignition Switch Installation Instructions 1969-1999 | Steering Column Services

gm, buick, cadillac, chevrolet, oldsmobile, & pontiac GM Ignition Switch Installation Instructions 1969-1999 from steeringcolumnservices.com!

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whatta tard, ha.

But...the switch was the problem and it's fixed. And my son has a daily driver back.