I hit a snag

[331efiblue66]

I tried to take the cylinder out of the ignition switch the other night so I can get the dash ready for paint. Guess what I found out, the keys I recieved with the car fit NOTHING!! I know I have to turn the lock cylinder to acc and use a paper clip to remove the cylinder, but without the proper key, short of a sawzall or cutoff tool, how do I remove the switch without mucking up my dash?
I have already ordered a new bezel, spacer, tumbler and key set, and there is a new ignition switch in the american autowire harness i've already purchased, so I have no reservations about just cutting it out if that is what it is going to take.

 

[horseballz]

Place a large screwdriver across the key slot (or a punch) and whack it firmly, but not too violently, with a hammer. This will break the retainer that holds the tumbler into the switch, but it WILL destroy the switch, at least to the point where the switch will never "capture" a tumbler again. After whacking, just pull the tumbler out and remove the switch as normal.
HTH,
Gene

 

[robbz28]

Must be different on a 66 than a 67....all I have to do is remove my bezel and I can pull the whole switch assembly out, I assume thats not the case?
I understand that they want you to pull the cylinder out so you can install the tool, but If you use a flat punch or screwdriver and small hammer and be very careful you should be able to get the bezel off with the cylinder still in the car.....at least in mine, hope that helps.

 

[331efiblue66]

Thanks guys, I'll give that a try next time I can spend a couple minutes in the garage. Robb- it is a different part #/setup for 66 & earlier cars.

 

[2+2GT]

Place a large screwdriver across the key slot (or a punch) and whack it firmly, but not too violently, with a hammer. This will break the retainer that holds the tumbler into the switch, but it WILL destroy the switch, at least to the point where the switch will never "capture" a tumbler again. After whacking, just pull the tumbler out and remove the switch as normal.
HTH,
Gene

I've had to do this on a few. One way around that, if there's even a chance that the doors and dash still match, is to take the door lock to any competent locksmith and have a key made for it. Costs less than replacing the switch and locks.

 

[zigmont]

I use a drill and drill out the tumblers. After that you can use a screwdriver to turn the switch. Be careful not to drill too deep.

 

[2+2GT]

My suggestion is the least expensive.

 

[331efiblue66]

My suggestion is the least expensive.

I don't know about that, my time is valuable too. By the time I take the door lock cylinder out and run it up to the locksmith, and then go back later to pick it up, my guess is gonna be at least $20 for their services, when for $21, I got 2 new door locks, and a new ignition tumbler, with 2 keys, shipped to my door! I think I made the best decision already.