RX7Club.com - Mazda RX7 Forum

RX7Club.com - Mazda RX7 Forum (https://www.rx7club.com/)
-   1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) (https://www.rx7club.com/1st-generation-specific-1979-1985-18/)
-   -   Having a problem getting ignition switch off?? (https://www.rx7club.com/1st-generation-specific-1979-1985-18/having-problem-getting-ignition-switch-off-619084/)

gilmore03 Jan 30, 2007 02:47 PM

Having a problem getting ignition switch off??
 
I need to take the whole ignition switch out and i dont know how it comes off the steering column...Anyone know how to get it off? I dont want to break anything

teamzzyzx Jan 30, 2007 03:06 PM

Get the dremel out and grind a slot in the center of those "rounded" bolts on the eides of it. The heads snap off when tightening the OEM bolts, leaving you with those round-head looking bolts. Then use a flat head screw driver and you're set.

Rx-7Doctor Jan 30, 2007 03:09 PM

If you are refeering to the ignition lock cylinder then this is how you remove it.
First have to remove the steering wheel. It takes a 13/16 or 21mm socket. There is no puller needed to remove the wheel. To remove, place your hands at 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock posistions and gently wiggle the wheel back and forth. Don't forget to reference the posistion of the wheel. I usually put the wheels straight ahead so when I reassemble the wheel is not off center.

Forgot to add. Disconnect the battery first.
Then you will need to remove the steering wheel trim that is behind the wheel. There are multiple screws holding this on. 4 if I remember correctly. Should be 1 on each side of the trim, 1 that holds the 2 pieces of the trim together at the bottom and the last one that is at the very bottom of the trim piece in the center. Be carefull when you are handling the trim, the plastic has a tendency to crack easily.
Now you will need to remove the combo switch that is located underneath the trim. You will need to disconnect the various plugs at the rear of the switch. There is a retaining screw that the head of it is facing towards the left door panel. You need to loosen that screw then the combo switch will slide off of the steering column.
Then you need to remove the electrical portion of the ignition switch from the lock mechanism. There is one screw that holds it in place. Remove the screw and set the electrical portion of the switch to the side.
You will see at the top of the ignition lock cylinder 2 bolts that hold the assembly in place.
They will not have a provision to put a socket on them nor a way to grip them. That is because they are security bolts.
To do the next step I recommend that you drop the steering column down. To do this follow the column down to you see 2 bolts underneath that are attached to a steel plate. Remove those bolts to lower down the column. It will make it easier to do the last step.
That step is to take a hammer and chisel and cut a slot in the top of the bolts so you can use a screwdriver to undo them.

Reasssembley is of course reverse the steps.


All times are GMT -5. The time now is 06:42 AM.


© 2026 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands