Can't turn ign key on 96 1500

aeroned · 06-27-2008, 09:40 PM

Hi everyone, just signed up and need your help with my 96 1500.

All of the sudden, I can't turn the ignition key, it was working just fine. I tried some lube, wiggling the trans arm, all the simple 'fixes' but still no luck.

I disassembled most of the column. In the process of removing the ignition switch, I busted the tang on the "differential" part of the key assembly (I'm going to have to get a new/used replacement for that). With the switch removed, the key still doesn't turn.

So any ideas on what might be jamming the key/tumbler preventing it from turning? Also any ideas where I can get the new key assembly?

Thanks,
Ned

gmctrucks · 06-27-2008, 10:54 PM

Welcome to start which. Follow the steel rod on steering column that goes from switch to this part where a lot of wires go plugged into to me that's whats wrong when you by one they come with instuctions on how to replace. Hope this helps! GMC
PS-You might have to remove lower panel under steering wheel to see what im talking about you can't miss the connector with a lot of wires going into it now there is a certain way of putting it back you might have another connector that besides it match them together so you won't have problems getting them into new switch.
I hope you understood what I mean.

gmctrucks · 06-28-2008, 06:27 AM

Ned did it work was that it?

mrjohnwayne · 06-28-2008, 08:13 PM

Those lock cylinders were really bad about wearing out and not wanting to turn.

aeroned · 06-28-2008, 09:30 PM

Thanks for the ideas!

Leave it to John Wayne, always the hero and a Ford owner to boot!

The tumbler cover came loose and a spring got caught under it preventing the tumbler from turning. Somehow I got the key to turn and removed the tumbler. Easy fix after a visit to the FLAPS.

Now I still need to get the plastic piece that goes into the ignition switch from the key assembly. I might try the dealer or try to glue the finger back on.

Ned

gmctrucks · 06-29-2008, 08:21 AM

Way to go MrJohnWayne (DUKE) next time it will be what I said. LOL

06-27-2008, 09:40 PM	#1
aeroned Junior Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Kansas Posts: 3	Can't turn ign key on 96 1500 Hi everyone, just signed up and need your help with my 96 1500. All of the sudden, I can't turn the ignition key, it was working just fine. I tried some lube, wiggling the trans arm, all the simple 'fixes' but still no luck. I disassembled most of the column. In the process of removing the ignition switch, I busted the tang on the "differential" part of the key assembly (I'm going to have to get a new/used replacement for that). With the switch removed, the key still doesn't turn. So any ideas on what might be jamming the key/tumbler preventing it from turning? Also any ideas where I can get the new key assembly? Thanks, Ned

06-28-2008, 08:13 PM	#4
mrjohnwayne Moderator Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Texas Posts: 3,114	Those lock cylinders were really bad about wearing out and not wanting to turn. __________________ John Wayne 2000 F-350 7.3L Powerstroke 4x4

Thread Tools	Search this Thread
Show Printable Version Email this Page	Search this Thread: Advanced Search

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
2007 sierra 1500, hard to turn wheel at first	gt2003	GMC Truck Forum	3	06-28-2008 10:27 AM
1995 K 1500 Cheyenne Key will not turn	larbec7	Chevy Truck Forum	11	05-16-2008 08:31 PM
GMC van won't turn right	340doc	Chevy Truck Forum	6	02-27-2008 06:26 PM
Turn Signals out HELP!	bulachip	GMC Truck Forum	16	08-17-2007 02:45 PM
they had their turn...	peterbilt	Ford Truck Forum	21	07-12-2007 04:26 PM

06-27-2008, 10:54 PM	#2
gmctrucks Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Houston,Texas Posts: 1,723	Welcome to start which. Follow the steel rod on steering column that goes from switch to this part where a lot of wires go plugged into to me that's whats wrong when you by one they come with instuctions on how to replace. Hope this helps! GMC PS-You might have to remove lower panel under steering wheel to see what im talking about you can't miss the connector with a lot of wires going into it now there is a certain way of putting it back you might have another connector that besides it match them together so you won't have problems getting them into new switch. I hope you understood what I mean.

06-28-2008, 06:27 AM	#3
gmctrucks Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Houston,Texas Posts: 1,723	Ned did it work was that it?

06-28-2008, 09:30 PM	#5
aeroned Junior Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Kansas Posts: 3	Thanks for the ideas! Leave it to John Wayne, always the hero and a Ford owner to boot! The tumbler cover came loose and a spring got caught under it preventing the tumbler from turning. Somehow I got the key to turn and removed the tumbler. Easy fix after a visit to the FLAPS. Now I still need to get the plastic piece that goes into the ignition switch from the key assembly. I might try the dealer or try to glue the finger back on. Ned

06-29-2008, 08:21 AM	#6
gmctrucks Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Houston,Texas Posts: 1,723	Way to go MrJohnWayne (DUKE) next time it will be what I said. LOL