Greetings all. '86 - 328 GTS. I'm having an issue slightly different than others threads I've been able to find. I have no issues turning my ignition switch to the run (II) position. However, I am having an issue turning past run (II) to start (III) and this started as a rare occurrence but now quite common. The first couple times it happened was spread out by months and I shrugged it off as not a big deal, but recently its nearly every time I try and start the car. Recently being since I just replaced my speedo the past couple weeks. I'm not wanting to drive the car until I figure this one out for fear of being stuck somewhere. I can turn easily/normally 180 degrees to run (II), but not the last 45 degrees to start (III). It doesn't feel like a hard tumbler lockout, but almost like something else is in the way. I understand there is a lock out to prevent you from accidently trying to start the car once it's already running and so imagine its a problem with that function. Any thoughts on how to troubleshoot or resolve? Thanks in advance to anyone for assistance.
Provide a photo of the front of the ignition switch. You may have a cracked center ignition barrel. It happens when the key is turned to a hard stop all the time when starting the stater motor.
Thanks. Photo below. There is a hairline gap, much smaller than your photo dead center. Its much finer than in yours so not sure if that is truly the same split through but sure could be. Can this be rebuilt? Who does it? Image Unavailable, Please Login
The only way is to replace the outer and inner barrel as one piece. Does the gap spread apart as you turn the key to start the engine? If so, you will need a replacement of the outer/inner barrel. It cannot be repaired when cracked, only replaced.
I had to get home to gives this a try. Here is what I've found. - When you insert the key and flip it 180 to position 2, you can no longer see the cylinder or keyway, no way to know if its spreading open - I partially inserted the key and put "gentle" pressure. No more than I would normally in starting the care. It did not separate at all (see photo) - In doing so and fiddling with it I think I did discover the actual problem Insert the key. pins are on the top side of the lock.. key turns fine. Flip the key 180.. the pins are inverted.. and the weight of the key is pulling against the keyway in the opposite direction, the key no longer turns If just gently turn it wont work.. if I push down gently, it wont turn, but if I lift the key gently it turns every time. I tested this a half dozen times to be sure. So it seems there is just enough play to allow the key to shift in the cylinder to allow the pins to come out of position. I went back to the original key and no issues at all, no fiddling. Looks like I need to get a new spare key cut (leave original alone). If I understand this correctly, there is a number somewhere that can be used to order a new key? Image Unavailable, Please Login
