SB 350 - Starting problems (electrical)

Hi Guys!

I know i'm a big user of this forum, and not at big contributer, but hope you would come with some input anyway :)

I have an 73 impala with tilt function in the steering column, that have som starting problem. It's not the starter or the engine.
The symptons is like:

Steering wheel in upper position -> turn the key to on (light etc. turning on) -> Turn the key to start (light turning off) -> Nothning happening, not even a click.

Lowering the steering wheel -> Turn the key to start - > the engine start.

Sometimes, in upper position, i can find a "soft spot" with the key, and the engine would start.

If i leave the steering wheel at the lower position after a drive, the engine do the same, as if it was at the top position.
I Need to move the steering wheel up and down to get it started.


I have change the lock cylinder, and it doesn't make any difference.. :whacked:

Do i need to change the Electrical starter switch?
More Information for AIRTEX / WELLS 1F5

Or where should i look for error?
I could record a little video if it could help understanding the problem :)

While the starter switch on the column may have a bad spot in it (requiring replacement). I suspect that either the bolts retaining it have loosened and the switch is sliding a little on the column or it is simply out of adjustment (the mounting holes are slotted to allow the switch to be positioned properly).

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Thanks for the quick reply Mike :)
Do you have link for the starter switch in the column? I can't seemed to find anything on ebay or rockauto :(
Unfortunatly my shopmanual is at home, but i will look at it later tomorrow, and se if there is a swich.

The ignition is mayby a bit loose, so i hope it just need tighten. How do you know to adjust it at it's right position?

Rock Auto Link, Starter Switches - 1973 CHEVROLET IMPALA 5.7L 350cid V8 Ignition Starter Switch | RockAuto

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Originally Posted by rspears

Rock Auto Link, Starter Switches - 1973 CHEVROLET IMPALA 5.7L 350cid V8 Ignition Starter Switch | RockAuto

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Hi Roger !

Thanks for reply, this relay, is the same thing i link to in my first post:
More Information for AIRTEX / WELLS 1F5

But i think Mike is talking about something in the column? As far as i know, that relay is placed under the dash (Around the brake pedal) But is it the starter switch, he is talking about? :)

Yup, that;s what I'm talking about. You will find it mounts to the column and is connected to the key via a "rack" and an piece of linkage rod.

I believe the switch you are referring to under the column and by the brake pedal (and not shown in the link you provide) is the neutral safety/backup light switch.


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Hi Mike

Just to clarify (English isn't my first language) The starter switch you are talking about in the column is this one?
More Information for AIRTEX / WELLS 1F5

1973 CHEVROLET IMPALA 5.7L 350cid V8 Ignition Starter Switch | RockAuto


Can i acces without taking the steering wheel off, or do i need to do the same precedure as changing the lock cylinder?
I came around to here when change the lock cylinder:
http://www.fieros.de/jpg/col10.jpg

Do i need to get "deeper" in?

Ref.: Illustrated tilt steering column disassembly

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Sherlock_Holmes

Hi Roger !

Thanks for reply, this relay, is the same thing i link to in my first post:
More Information for AIRTEX / WELLS 1F5

But i think Mike is talking about something in the column? As far as i know, that relay is placed under the dash (Around the brake pedal) But is it the starter switch, he is talking about? :)

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That is the switch, it's not a relay, and it's located at the bottom of the steering column. Check out the discussion below as they address the problem.
Ignition Switch Removal - ChevyTalk - FREE Restoration and Repair Help for your Chevrolet

Quote:

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Originally Posted by NTFDAY

That is the switch, it's not a relay, and it's located at the bottom of the steering column. Check out the discussion below as they address the problem.
Ignition Switch Removal - ChevyTalk - FREE Restoration and Repair Help for your Chevrolet

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Thanks for the usefull link, and clearification :)

Do i need to change some other things when i'm down there? I suppose the hole outher "cover" of the column must come off when changing the switch? Some o-ring, lock ring or anything else? :)

Tranny neutral start switch-------

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Originally Posted by jerry clayton

Tranny neutral start switch-------

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Hi Jerry

Should i try to start the car in N and see if this make any difference? Or do you mean to change it, while im down there?

Try and adjust the switch first, it may not need to be replaced. If it has to be replaced remove the electrical connector first, remove the two screws that hold it to the column, and the carefully pull it down some to release the actuating rod.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by NTFDAY

Try and adjust the switch first, it may not need to be replaced. If it has to be replaced remove the electrical connector first, remove the two screws that hold it to the column, and the carefully pull it down some to release the actuating rod.

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I try that first, but.. How do i know to adjust it right? I suppose the lock cylinder is out (Because i had to move the outher cover/hosing) so i can't check it with that, or ? :)

With the key inserted put the switch in the "lock" position. At the switch loosen the two screws that hold it in place and move the switch until it is in the 2nd detent position and then tighten the screws down. It should now be properly adjusted.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by NTFDAY

With the key inserted put the switch in the "lock" position. At the switch loosen the two screws that hold it in place and move the switch until it is in the 2nd detent position and then tighten the screws down. It should now be properly adjusted.

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Hi Ken

Thanks for the guidance, sounds easy :) I will try that before, ordering anything. I try it at the weekend, and give an update :)

Have a nice day !