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Ignition switch actuator

Tiny
CHRIS ASHLEY2
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
  • 2.2L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 194,482 MILES
I had to replace the ignition lock cylinder because it went bad triggering the anti-theft system. After a couple of months the ignition lock cylinder would not stay in the "run" position. The car would start and idle, but the key would kick out of the "run" position suddenly. I replaced the ignition lock cylinder again hoping for a miracle. It did not correct the problem. I have found the actuator even though it has been discontinued. How do you remove and replace this actuator?

Thanks for the help.
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Tuesday, June 2nd, 2020 AT 11:59 AM

11 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,289 POSTS
Hi,

Are you referring to the ignition switch itself? If so, here are the directions for removal and replacement of the switch. The attached pics correlate with the directions.

___________________________________

1999 Chevrolet Cavalier L4-144 2.4L DOHC VIN T SFI
Ignition Switch
Vehicle Steering and Suspension Steering Steering Column Service and Repair Removal and Replacement Ignition Switch
IGNITION SWITCH
REMOVAL PROCEDURE

CAUTION: Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in Service Precautions.

Pic 1

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the steering column trim covers.
3. Remove the ignition lock cylinder.
4. Remove the 2 screws (2) from the ignition switch (3).
5. Remove the ignition switch (3) from the steering column (1).

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

pic 2

1. Install the ignition switch (3) to the steering column (1).

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

2. Install the screws (2) to the ignition switch (3).
Tighten the screws to 4 Nm (36 inch lbs.).
3. Install the ignition lock cylinder.
4. Install the steering column trim covers.
5. Connect the negative battery cable.

_______________

Let me know if that is what you needed.

Joe
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
CHRIS ASHLEY2
  • MEMBER
  • 17 POSTS
I need to remove and replace the actuator behind the ignition switch.
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,289 POSTS
Is it the steel linkage between the switch and the lock cylinder? If that's the case, I don't believe it's even replaceable. If you have the part, take a pic and upload it for me to see.
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
CHRIS ASHLEY2
  • MEMBER
  • 17 POSTS
The part number is GM Lock Actuator 26032220. It has been discontinued by GM, but I have found it on other websites for sale. It is part 13 in the attached photo.
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,289 POSTS
Chris,

That's the ignition lock actuator. That should be removable once the lock cylinder is out of the column. If you look at the attached pic, it explains how it is removed.

Let me know if that helps.
Joe
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
CHRIS ASHLEY2
  • MEMBER
  • 17 POSTS
I will try it this weekend.

This is the part that keeps the ignition switch in the run position, correct? I was told replacing the actuator would take care of the ignition switch turning off. I do not want to start replacing parts just to hope something works.
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,289 POSTS
Hi Chris. Honestly, that is a linkage between the two parts. I believe the switch itself holds it. In all honesty, in 40 years, I've never replaced just an actuator, but I can't see how it keeps it in the run position.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
CHRIS ASHLEY2
  • MEMBER
  • 17 POSTS
Hey Joe. Sorry it has been so long. I have been working on my truck as well and, of course, the usual of work and family.
I was able to pull the switch this morning and check it. When I turn the switch simulating start and run it snaps back to the off position either immediately or within seconds. I have one ordered and hope to have it within a day or two.

Thinking back I should have noticed this when I replaced the ignition lock cylinder because I did not have the accessory position.

Thanks for your help.

Chris
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

I hope all is well. Thanks for letting me know what is happening. As far as the switch, let me know if that takes care of the issue.

Let me know if you have questions or need anything.

Take care,
Joe
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
CHRIS ASHLEY2
  • MEMBER
  • 17 POSTS
Joe,
The switch solved it. The engine started immediately as soon as I turned the key. The accessory position is present and working. I have driven the car a few times, and everything is working like it should. Thanks for your guidance.

Chris
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

That's good news. Thanks for letting me know. Take care of yourself and let us know if you ever have questions in the future.

Joe
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Monday, March 22nd, 2021 AT 5:57 PM

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