AMC Eagle Den Forum

The Mighty 258 => Engine Electrical Systems. => Topic started by: johnbendik on September 02, 2019, 08:08:39 PM

Title: Easiest access to ignition switch/starter wire
Post by: johnbendik on September 02, 2019, 08:08:39 PM
The 'start' position on my ignition switch has stopped working.  The starter still works if I jumper the "S" post on the starter relay to the battery, so I'm confident it's the switch or related wiring. It's a manual tranny, so there's no neutral safety switch.

I've read the steering column/ignition switch posts, and I'm still unclear as to whether I can get to the switch easily.  I've removed the two bolts holding the column up to the dash structure, hoping that the column would just drop down, but that's not happening.

I would also be fine with leaving the switch broken and hooking up a dash pushbutton to activate the starter, if I could just identify the steering column wire running to the starter relay.  I'm pretty sure it's green (from the wiring charts), but my Eagle has a rat's nest of wiring in that area, and there's plenty of green(ish) wires to choose from.

I'm arthritic and can't twist myself up to work under the dash for more than a few minutes at a time.  I'm hoping that some one can:
(A) Give me the shortest path to accessing the ignition switch, given that I've already removed those two bolts
- - or - -
(B) Help me clearly identify the starter wire so I can hook up a remote starter.

Thanks to all in advance,
JB
Title: Re: Easiest access to ignition switch/starter wire
Post by: amcfool1 on September 02, 2019, 09:53:40 PM
hey john, not quite sure of your problem, but the starter switch, the on in the steering column, is not that hard to replace. You MUST remove the steering wheel, not that hard with the right tool. then you can remove the switch and install a new one. It is a GM style switch, and is available most anywhere. Worst case take it to a good local shop, should not charge you more than a hour or so for labour. good luck, gz
Title: Re: Easiest access to ignition switch/starter wire
Post by: rmick on September 02, 2019, 11:21:11 PM
The key switch is connected to a push rod that goes down the column the actual ignition contacts are mounted on the side of the column. see the diagram here of the column. http://amceaglesden.com/guide/Tilt_Column
Title: Re: Easiest access to ignition switch/starter wire
Post by: DAVE on September 03, 2019, 04:15:15 PM
the ignition switch is on the lower part of the steering column and will be on the right hand side opposite of the dimmer switch and works in the same manner helps to pull the other bolts on the column support bracket and remove the bracket completely
that is what you need to replace if the key functions properly.