steering column/ignition

[terzmo]

First time this ever happened.....car has always started/turned over well. column ignition key/switch. Well, went to start it and the switch turned all the way to crank and all I got was a dash light and the key wouldn't spring back, just sorta stayed in the crank position...also didn't get any gauge deflection. Left the key on and the car started,very reluctently by jumping the starter selonoid.(car normally fires almost immediatel,this time cranked way too long). Now I'm pissed because I was leaving for a cruise. I played with the colum a bit and the key/switch returned to normal. Car fired up immediately and the return spring action worked.
What's with this ?? This is the newest old car I've had and never dealt with a column switch. Suggestions ?

 

[67 coronet]

normally the column mounted ign switches have a little amount of adjustability.see if it moved,and try to adjust it.you can unhook it to see if you get any binding inside the column as well.could just be the switch is worn out as well.

 

[terzmo]

how is it unhooked? how to adjust...never worked a column ignition...only dash

 

[67 coronet]

how is it unhooked? how to adjust...never worked a column ignition...only dash

look down the column past where it mounts to dash.you will see the switch bolted to the side of the column.has two screws holding in place and those normally have slotted holse for minor adjusting.a metal rod comes down from the lock cylinder(looks like coat hanger)and hooks to the switch.when you turn the cylinder it moves the rod and slides along the switch.if you unbolt the two screws and remove the switch,you can actuate the cylinder to check for any binding there.if that is smooth and you cant adjust your problem out,replace the ign switch and see how it goes.

 

[terzmo]

excellent stuff...do I need to pull the wheel to remove the switch...I remember My 69 camaro had a pin to release with the key in and the entire cylinder would easilly come out...Thanks