Ignition switch removal a PITA

[Brad w]

The bolts that hold the ignition switch in place had to be drilled out to remove the switch. That was not the hard part. when they were installed the bolts were Blue Loc-tighted in. I almost never got these out. I broke off my ease out in one hole and had to grind that with a dremal and a carbide rotary bit. That side will have to be over-sized one size. The other side came out with a little force but I used a larger ease out on this side. I will not be using the same break off bolts on reassembly. Is Loc-Tight usually used in these areas?

[rusnak]

I think loctite makes a lot of sense because the heads of the breakoff bolts shear with low torque. Why not secure them with loctite? I've drilled my bolts out with the Crafstman bolt extractor set. It worked very well. I think the more difficult part of the job is the tiny allen bolt arrangement that secures the steering column lock. It helps to remove the steering wheel and turn signals, of course.

[stevemfr]

Yes, there is always loctite on these bolts. The standard method of removal is to chisel them out: use a chisel at the perimeter of the bolt head to make a notch, then chisel the head in the direction of rotation. Works quite well and is much less time consuming than drilling, tapping, heating, etc.

[Mike Andrew]

Using a dremel to create a notch for a screwdriver also works quite well.
I am in agreement that the set screw securing the column lock is a bear. DO NOT TAKE IT ALL THE WAY OUT!!!! Only back it out enough to pull the lock assembly or you will have big problems gettingit back in due to work area and the angle at which it threads.

[johndglynn]

Mine were not loctited in place. I took the whole steering lock assy off and fixed it on the kitchen table, much easier.

[rattlsnak]

Originally Posted by stevemfr

Yes, there is always loctite on these bolts. The standard method of removal is to chisel them out: use a chisel at the perimeter of the bolt head to make a notch, then chisel the head in the direction of rotation. Works quite well and is much less time consuming than drilling, tapping, heating, etc.

+1!