steering column???

brycewetton77

New member
I have a 77 Scout 4 sp.manual with a 345. My ignition is broken(the key is broken in the ignition causing the car to always be stuck in the "acc" position) I can start the truck sometimes, it just seems like the ignition isnt making contact to send power to the starter all of the time. I was just wandering if I could take the whole steering column out of my friends 79 Scout and use it in mine. Will there be any compatibility issues with the ignition/steering column?
 
There are two primary components for normal key start function with any saginaw column. The key tumbler and the ignition switch. Either of which could contribute to the failure you're experiencing. The easiest one to deal with is the ignition switch mounted on the topside of the column about midway down and behind the instrument panel. To access it, you will need to remove the plastic column shroud and the instrument panel cover. It could very well be that this switch has bound up preventing your key tumbler from rotating properly, as the two items are connected via a metal plunger rod. If you find that the key tumbler will rotate freely once the plunger rod has been disabled, you know the switch itself is the problem. This can be further confirmed by actuating the plunger rod by hand. If the movement seems forced or sticky, the switch will need to be replaced. There are two switches available. One for a tilt column and one for non-tilt. You need to get the correct one to match your column style. These are common replacement parts which can be purchased at most any parts store. You could swap columns between scouts as mentioned, but then the issue you're left with is mismatched door and ignition keys, so try the diagnostic approach as suggested above first and see where that gets you.
 
As a side note - if the ignition switch that scoutboy mentioned is in good working order, and if the key being broken in key cylinder in the column is the only issue to cause in the starting issue, then the key cylinder could be replaced. Easily purchased and replacable. Best way to get the old key tumbler out is to take off the steering wheel and then the turn signal switch assembly. At that point you can pick out the key lock tumbler and replace with new one. But, afterwards you will end up with a new ignition key. If you want matching keys for the doors and rear lift t-handle, ihon does sell a kit that replaces all the lock tumblers to be able to use one key for all
 
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