1979 firebird how can I replace electical ignition switch on column?

Asked by GuruGRG1N Aug 29, 2020 at 11:00 AM about the 1979 Pontiac Firebird Formula

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

1979 firebird, car cranks, getting gas but no spark. Replaced cap, rotor, coil, module already. Need instructions to swap ignition switch. I've already dropped steering column. Can I just unplug and swap units without removing anything else? May there be another cause for crank but no start.

1 Answer

155,075

Are you getting power at the ignition coil? You should see around 6 to 8 volts DC in the run position of the ignition switch and 12 volts DC in the start position. If so, the ignition switch is good and the magnetic pick up in the distributor may be bad. If your high beam switch is on the turn signal stalk you might have to remove that too. If I remember correctly I think they're bolted together and secured to the column with the same bolts. Kind of piggyback. You'll want to tighten the mounting bolts loosely so you can adjust the switches for proper operation. Remember to disconnect the negative battery cable before you start the job too! Hope that helps! Jim

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