'72 Trans Am Ignition Switch?

[southernfriedcj]

The key in my '72 TA will not return all the way back. In other words I can't get the key out or turn the ignotion switch off. Does anyone have a fix or do I need a locksmith?

TIA, Jim

[BARN FIND]

Is the Is the steering column spinning when you shift to park on a automatic or reverse on a manual? If not then you need to make sure the rod under the hood on the column is connected. This would cause your problem.

[agtw31]

if its not your adjusting rod,and if you have AAA plus,you can get a new tumbler setup put in your car for free.
just call AAA and tell them your ignition switch stuck,they will send somebody out.

i had a Camaro that did the same thing,called AAA and it was done.

[1969z280]

Sothernfried:

Most of the time the column collar isn't moving all of the way to lock when placed in park or reverse in a manual trans car. Simply give it a little help by moving it manually and the key should come out without a problem. It happens all of the time. Ed

[njsteve]

If you dont have the backdrive linkage that connects to the reverse lever on the trans hooked up, the collar wont spin and you can accidentaly bump it out of sync. Grab the lower portion of your stearing column and rotate it left or right. As it goes to the full turn position you should be able to get the key out. This system, when working properly ensures that the car is placed in reverse (on four speed cars) before you can remove the key. It also activates the column mounted switch for the backup lights.

[DaJudge]

Steve is right on the money. It also ensures that automatic cars are in Park in order to remove the key. Rotate the lower portion as Steve states and all should be well.

[Plowman]

Ignition won,t turn off. The ignition(tumbler) or the keyed ignition lock is bad. Good Luck

[southernfriedcj]

Guys, thanks for all the information. I gave the wheel a couple of turns and shifted in and out of reverse a couple times and it worked out. I think that the key may be cut bad. I'm going to take it by a locksmith shop and get them to take a look at it.

Jim