1970 Challenger S/E Steering Column Lock Cylinder Key-In Switch

[dkt711]

Hi all.

I am re-assembling the steering column on my car and have re-wired the key-in buzzer switch and tested it. It tests good so I am re-installing it into the steering column. When I install it in its correct position and put the key into the lock, nothing pushes down on the buzzer switch. Are there different lock cylinders, some that work with the key-in buzzer, and some that don't? I don't know if I have a broken lock assembly or maybe the original was swapped out in the past.

Thanks in advance!!

[dkt711]

Hi all. After more investigation it appears that the lock mechanism is broken. I found an old lock assembly that had a key-in lever that works and can see that my mechanism broke at some time. Wonder if I can remove the tab over the spring and replace the broken one with the new one.... Sounds like a possible project for tomorrow. Here are the pictures of both lock mechanisms:

[EV2RTSE]

I've never had to mess with that tab myself but one other thing you could probably do is take both cylinders to a locksmith, he could most likely transfer the tumblers from the broken one to the unbroken one so the same key still works. I had some of this type of stuff done with glove box, console & trunk locks at a local shop to make some matching original sets and it wasn't expensive at all since the locks were already out of the car. It might be a better option in case there is any damage or wear to the original case that may allow it to happen again. Not fun to have to dig back down into the column.

[Jay Bee]

I replaced that lever from a donor switch, it can be done.

https://forum.e-bodies.org/electrical-and-audio/11/ignition-cylinder-broken-lever/23479/msg278700#msg278700