Ignition switch question

[Orange71shorty]

Is there any way to get the ignition switch out without a key?
I bought a 72 K20 and didn’t get keys with it.

[LockDoc]

Originally Posted by Orange71shorty

Is there any way to get the ignition switch out without a key?
I bought a 72 K20 and didn’t get keys with it.

Tough to do. Some guys have used a sawzall behind the dash to cut the switch in two. That would be my last resort. Remove the door locks and see if there is a code number stamped into one of them. It would look something like the picture below. If there is a code number, most locksmith shops should be able to cut a key from that. A key can also be made by disassembling one of the door locks and make a key by reading the wafers in the lock. If none of the locks have been changed, that key should fit the ignition.

Let us know what you find.

LockDoc
.

[Orange71shorty]

Thanks Lock Doc I’ll give that a try!

[GMCPaul]

If you can't find the key code on door locks to get a key made. Then the easiest method we've found is use a small screw driver in key slot of ignition switch to pry the stainless face off the ignition lock. Be sure to grasp the ignition switch behind dash to prevent distorting the dash area when you pry the face off the ignition lock. Once this stainless steel face plate is pried off you can unscrew the ignition bezel and replace lock cylinder.
Paul Jr @ GMCPauls

[LockDoc]

Originally Posted by GMCPaul

If you can't find the key code on door locks to get a key made. Then the easiest method we've found is use a small screw driver in key slot of ignition switch to pry the stainless face off the ignition lock. Be sure to grasp the ignition switch behind dash to prevent distorting the dash area when you pry the face off the ignition lock. Once this stainless steel face plate is pried off you can unscrew the ignition bezel and replace lock cylinder.
Paul Jr @ GMCPauls

You still can't get the lock cylinder out of the switch without a key or drilling it out. I have always found it easier to drill the cylinder while it is still solid in the dash. If you are going to replace the switch and cylinder that would be easier, yes....

LockDoc.

[sloGMC]

I would agree that drilling it out is super easy. If you’re careful you can avoid damaging the switch too, but they’re cheap enough that you might be better off replacing it anyway.

[GMCPaul]

I've removed 2 ignition lock cylinder bezels using the method I described. I know the 1st 1 I did was the 1967 version small ignition bezel I removed and if memory serves me correctly the 2nd was the larger 68-72 bezel version. Both were done on truck cabs being stripped to have patch work repair done so I wasn’t concerned with saving the ignition switch for later use and I believe the lock cylinder remained in the switch but we used all new lock bezels, lock cylinders and switches after restoring the cabs upon reassembly. I found this easier than drilling them out. I sure though with the ignition lock SS face plate pried off with a flat blade screw driver you can then unscrew the outer chrome ignition bezel from the ignition switch.
Paul Jr @ GMCPauls

[Orange71shorty]

What size drill bit are you using without ruining the housing?
Thanks for all the good ideas

[LockDoc]

Originally Posted by Orange71shorty

What size drill bit are you using without ruining the housing?
Thanks for all the good ideas

Start with an 1/8th inch bit and work your way up. Put a piece of tape on the bits about 3/4" up and don't go any deeper than that. Go slow so the bit doesn't catch and break off in the hole. Keep the loose pieces dug out with an "O" ring pick and after you get to about 1/4 or 3/8" put a screw driver in the lock and turn it back and forth to try and get it loosened up. If you get it to turn to the left go ahead an insert the paper clip in the hole and see if it will turn to the left enough to pull it out. Use a small hook tool or dental pick to pull on it after you get it turned.

LockDoc