I just got my 79 RX-7 home and for some reason, the key won't turn in the ignition. We had to use a jack to line the car up with the trailer to load it. I can get the key to turn just enough to take off the steering lock by wiggling the key up and down.

I am wondering if anyone else has had a similar problem and how to fix it. I just sprayed some cleaner in the lock and am letting it set to hopefully free things up, but it feels jammed up pretty good.

 

Yeah, I had the same problem when I first got my 79. I could still turn it, but it took a little jimmying around. A little liquid graphite worked pretty good for a little while, but then it totally seized up. Eventually, I got a whole new lock mechanism and everything is fine now.

 

use dry graphite powder to free the barrel, do not use liquid oils etc.

 

When I put my interior back together I accidentl put a screw too long into the steering coloumn shroud (bottom piece) the screw interfered with the ignition. Probably not the problem but take a look anyways.

 

i have a spare ignition with key for a 79 if you are interested, i think i even have at least one door lock cylinder too if want it... give me a offer....

Alvin