Hi All
I am having a problem with my ignition switch.  It works fine to start the car but sometimes after a short trip I'll turn the key to shut the car off and it won't shut off.  A couple of times it shut down after shifting into reverse (I had just decided to go back home and pull the fuse if I had to).  After those times the switch would work fine the rest of that day.
Any clues what could be causing this sporadic  operation?   I would prefer not to replace the switch especially if it means having to get new keys as they are original.  Any suggestions or hopefully easy fixes?
Thanks for any help.
BW

The ignition switch is located toward the bottom of the column...all the key does is turn the mechanism that works the switch, so...if the switch is the problem, you can change the switch, and still use your same key(s)

It does sound like a switch issue, but it may just be loose, or in need of an adjustment. Putting the trans in reverse will move the lock mechanism in the column(the thing that keeps you from removing the key unless the trans is in reverse), and that may also be moving the switch, or some wires.
Take a look at the switch, and make sure it is tight on the column. There are a couple of pics of the switch somewhere in either the "Electrical" forum, or possibly the "Interiors" forum...I'll look and see can I find that thread...


HERE'S one!, and Here's another pic with some details...
hth Adams' Apple2008-07-02 05:12:11

Thanks for the pic.
I got under there and looked and think I found it, mine looks more silver than white but the rod is running into it.  It feels solid and does not move around. I checked the wires into it and they seem well connected too.
I turned the key while I was under there and did not see the rod move but I am kinda far sighted so it was a little blurry that close.  Are you supposed to be able to see it move - car started okay.  So it must have done what it was supposed to.
It shut off okay but it has been sporadic to begin with.

There are some things you could try. Unbolt the switch and see if there is flash rust on the column and rod clean it if there is. also while the switch is unbolted take a screwdriver and manually move the selector( where the operating rod from the key fits into the switch) you should be able to start and shut off the car. if same the car wont shut shut off,I belive its the switch.

I assume your '82 has tilt/tele? If so, next time it won't shut off, try tilting the column up/down...sometimes that will move the rod enough to open the ign. circuit. If it shuts off when you move the column, there is an issue with the rod binding in the column, or possible the rack/pinion for the key-switch is worn.

I'd be looking closely at the ign switch, tho. You may need to take if off of the column to get a close look, and smell...that's right, smell. If the switch is melted inside, and causing the problem, you should be able to smell the acrid smell of melted plastic....

I suggest not spending to much time messing with the ignition switch, but just replace it.  It is relatively inexpensive and available from corvette central, zip, etc.  I recently replaced it when it started giving me the opposite problem (turning the key would result in nothing, but bypassing the switch to the solenoid worked fine).  I tried all kinds of things like spraying contact cleaner into the switch and loosening the screws and shifting it, etc. to no avail. When it was all said and done, lowering the column some and just replacing it was quicker and solved my problems instantly.  I don't know for certain, but think it was the original switch with 32 years of moisture and wear working on it.

Hope that helps.

my bad - when I got under the dash the other day I now think I was looking at the dimmer switch.
How hard is it to lower the steering column to get to the switch.  I have a service manual and it doesn't look like it would be too bad, ( a couple of bolts holding it up to flange)  if that is all there is to it, that I would need to do to get to the switch, even I might be able to handle that.
After looking at the photos and schematics for the steering column disassembly I know I don't want to get into that.
Thanks for the help and suggestions.  One reason I love this car is there always seems to be something to tinker with.

I just replied to another thread on this subject, so look there, but it was not difficult to lower the column enough to access the switch (do disconnect your battery though).  I removed the lower column cover and AC cross duct (one screw and a little wiggling), then loosened the through bolts in the firewall cover for the column (can get to these from inside at the base of the steeing column).  With these bolts loose, removal of the column to pedal assembly bolts let me lower the column 4 to 6 inches.  From that point, it was possible to access the cap screws holding the switch to the column (these are on the left side of the column and using a combination of a small crescent wrench and 1/4 inch drive and socket - it was pretty easy with a good light).  My switch had to be lifted up off the stiff column wire and over to the right side so that I could lower it down enough to access the plastic catches that hold the switch to the connector.

Installation was the reverse, but make sure the new switch is in the same position as the old so that it lowers onto the stiff column wire in the same location (the cap screws should go right in).  Hope that helps, but you will probably discover something different from me)