I am having a problem with my steering colum?

Question

I have a 1981 Olds cutlas supreme
I have to start my car by a swich.
My ignition can turn with no key so I know I need new ingnition but...
Do I have to change out my whole colum or is ther a quik fix method?

Answer 1

i have had the same problem but with an olds monte carlo. a 83. it is better to change the whole colum because there might be a few other things wrong with it , gm around those yrs i have found a few where the coloum while driving became rather warm so just to be on the safe side i would change the whole thing. it is very easy. contact me for other info i used to have like 4 cars like this. i had the same thing hard wired to start off of a push button.

Answer 2

I will do my best without looking at it. First, you can remove the key switch by simply removing the steering wheel, lock-out plate etc. with the key in the switch, just simply depress the ball bearing and switch should simply turn cw out of column. Finally, on the left side of the base of the column is your ignition switch. make sure the linkage is attached and is properly adjusted. if not a simple adjustment couldn't hurt. Well, i hope this can be of some service to you.

Answer 3

you can change or have changed the ignition switch assembly. Remove the plastic covers on the steering column and unbolt/disconnect the switch. You dont need a whole new column. Its a dealer only part, but you might be able to find one in a junkyard, it will just take a different key.

A pushbutton start is not legal for inspection unless factory installed (in VT state)

Answer 4

You can order a new switch from Amazon for around 30 bux. Take off the steering wheel and there is a screw under the horn mechanism, that is on the right just below the ignition lock, Remove the screw, and the lock will slide right out.
Reverse to install. Make sure your wheels are perfectly straight when you remove the steering wheel, that way you can center the wheel when you re install it.
easy peasy