I recently bought a 1963 Ford Falcon to restore. I'm prepping the dash for painting and have removed everything expect the ignition switch. Here lies the problem I can't get the darn thing out. I've inserted a paperclip in the hole in the key cylinder and advanced the cylinder past the Acc. but the cylinder will not come out. I believe this is due to the fact that someone had punched the cylinder to allow a screwdriver to start the car. Is it possible to remove the ignition switch with the cylinder still intact. If not what can be done, Can I drill out the key cylinder?

any help would be greatly appreciated

 

I'm not positive - but if the bezel is removed with a bezel tool - does it drop out with it? At any rate drilling it might just bust your bits. At any rate I hope you bought the car WITH the title 'cause it sure sounds stolen. A good locksmith might help though (assuming it's all legal). Some of them will even come to your location.

 

Are you turning the key to ACC first, then inserting the paper clip and turning further?

Unless the cylinder is totally mangled, it should come out when you turn it and pull on the key.

I don't think you can remove the bezel until you remove the cylinder.
(But they tell me that I have been wrong before)

A VERY last resort would be to screw a dent puller into the key hole and pull the cylinder, then get a new one.

Ron

 

I assumed he meant there was no key when he said it was "punched out" to start with a screwdriver. But if you have a key I'd give it a try anyhow else you'd need to know some locksmithing knowhow to turn it to accessory.

 

Thanks for all the good answers. I did end up drilling out the cylinder, ever so carefully so as to not damage the ignition switch. once I got about 1/2 inch into the cylinder the thing just popped right out. I did get the car with a clean title, I guess some knucklehead lost the keys, all cylinder( driver door, trunk, and ignition) were punched. Thanks again