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 !

Sherlock, I see no reason to change the NSS if it's functioning OK, but if you DO elect to change it because of it's age I would definitely do the two switches one at a time, getting the first one fully adjusted and functioning right before taking the second one off. It makes no sense to be chasing two adjustable devices in the same circuit, trying to figure out which is the reason for your no crank status.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by rspears

Sherlock, I see no reason to change the NSS if it's functioning OK, but if you DO elect to change it because of it's age I would definitely do the two switches one at a time, getting the first one fully adjusted and functioning right before taking the second one off. It makes no sense to be chasing two adjustable devices in the same circuit, trying to figure out which is the reason for your no crank status.

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As an aircraft mechanic, I can tell you that right there is some solid advise!

Youre all right, one thing at the time :)

I have taken it apart, but can't locate the switch, how much more do i have to take apart?

Hope this picture can tell you something :)
https://s32.postimg.org/uv5r5fxf5/20...2_14_46_39.jpg

https://s32.postimg.org/ovi01scmp/20...2_14_46_45.jpg

https://s32.postimg.org/5exaf9hip/20...2_14_46_49.jpg

The switch is at the other end (bottom) of the column.

Exploded View with Legend - Tilt Parts For Steering Columns | Steering Column Services See Part # 80, on top of the column, just below the mount to the dash for support.

Look for sloppiness in the shift linkage-with a 43 year old car probably enough wear in the physical( Non-Electric) parts that the electrical components can't do there job.

Hi guys, first off all, thanks a lot for all your help and time :-) I manage to find the switch, pretty easy to come to :-)

But I don't know how to adjust it, I loosened the screw, the key on lock, but couldnt see "the 2nd detent position" as NTFDAY wrote. Instead I put the key in on, at put the switch as far away from the steering wheel as possible. The ignition now works a bit better, but not perfect.

Could you walk me through an adjustement ? My Manuel says I should se the 2nd detent or use a small plastic clip that comes with a new switch :-)
https://s31.postimg.org/ah9z8nmbb/IM...712_162523.jpg

Hi Denny

Thanks a lot for the long post :)
Why remove the neg cable ?
Just for clarification:
Lose the screws, ignition in "on", push the switch against the spring, and let it glide back, and tighten the screws?

I'm sorry but i don't see how put a paperclip down the hole, would help adjust the swich? Can i feel when it in the right position? I don't have the little black plate label "right position" on my switch :)

Oops :o:o Replied, but then realized you were just asking Denny. ;) **)

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Originally Posted by rspears

Oops :o:o Replied, but then realized you were just asking Denny. ;) **)

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Hi Roger

Haha, your are very welcome to answer the question also ;) :D

Thanks for the specification Denny ! I will try that in the weekend :)

Have a nice friday everyone :)