Ignition Switch Blues

[flhtc01]

This maybe in the wrong forum and if so, if the modulators could move it to the proper forum, I would appreciate it.

I have a 1986 M1008 Chevy. The problem is that when I try to start it, I have to turn the ignition switch abnormally far to activate the starter and I really have to turn it to the stop and push hard up against it to get it to initiate the starter. This has been this way since I bought the truck and I am the third private party owner. The second owner told me that the first owner had replaced the ignition switch. Is there a rod that is to short in the column that could be causing this or is the ignition switch bad or the wrong one? I am very interested in getting this resolved so, I entertain any and all input.

 

[NVW]

It's a good anti-theft feature.

I think you will have to dig in the column to find out which.

 

[Will L.]

Someone probably bent the rod that goes from cylinder to the switch. The good news is you shouldn't have to spend any money. The bad news is I know you're doing for about the next three to four hours. Pull apart the steering column and drop it down out of its bracket (you can leave it in the truck) and see what's going on. I can't remember if the switch mountings are adjustable or not.