Ignition switch question (Don't laugh)

[bhamilton]

OK, this might be a stupid question to some of you but it has been YEARS since I last had my old Roadrunner, now I have this '73 Satellite and am wondering if the ignition switch has the accessory position like modern vehicles (1 click back)?

Either it does and something is jacked so it doesn't go back or it doesn't and I am trying in vain.

 

[MRHWS]

Yes it does. It should be forward for accessory. Try moving the steering wheel a little as you turn the key, but do not force.

 

[bhamilton]

Yes it does. It should be forward for accessory. Try moving the steering wheel a little as you turn the key, but do not force.

I can move the ignition switch forward and start the car just fine, everything is smooth. Moving the switch forward 1 click unlocks the steering wheel, 2 clicks forward is the run position and 3rd engages the starter.

Are you saying that it is the run position? Would that not heat up the coil?

 

[Southernman]

bhamilton, you are correct. The key switch "ACC" position is one click back (toward the driver, or counterclockwise as you view the key switch) to run your accessories. If the switch doesn't rotate back one click, then try wiggling the steering wheel while turning to see if that helps. If not, the switch, or column linkage may be defective.

As you noted, one click forward is a "manual override" to permit moving the vehicle while not running, and the second click is the "run" position - and the coil/ignition is energized in that position. Leaving the switch in this position for a prolonged period of time will damage ignition components.

Southernman

 

[268RTs4ME]

switch

see ignition switch

 

[73plymouth]

mines one click back for just the radio

 

[Cranky]

mines one click back for just the radio

Not sure when they quit doing it like this but with the older cars when in the ACC position, you could also turn on everything including the wipers and blower motor...just not the ignition system. That stopped with the newer cars and pretty much only the radio will play but I don't know when that was phased in.