There's a stack of threads on VP ignition problems but none talk about the difference in the two components. Even had the problem a number of times myself (and done the repair myself too). Each time replacing the whole assembly. Now this car is a piece of **** and I can't bare to spend $100 when all i really need is a new barrel at $30 So if the key spins freely, do I need a barrel or a whole new assembly? Turned the ignition on and had a light snapping sound and then free play with the ignition stuck on but not able to start.
Pull the plastic surround off there is a black plug on the back pull it off and look to see if the end of the barrel has snapped off or stripped the black plastic key way.
Pulled the plug off the back. All good there. No metal section to be found that fits into the plastic slot on the back of the switch. The bit may have fallen out when I got the switch off. off to the other threads now to figure out how to take it all apart. I did this last time but have forgotten
Thought I'd post a couple of photos off what does what. Haven't found many in any thread so far so this should help a couple of punters. Ok, the end of the barrel broke off. It's behind the spring. It should be longer and fit into the back of the switch normally mounted on the back of the barrel. The next shows the hole that NotAnABBAFan mentions. I used a bent bit of wire coat hanger. Perfect fit and strong enough to make the job easier than a Just Commodores moderator at a BBQ after a few beers. So the hole to look for is the one at the top, almost against the steering column. Turn the key to ON and out it comes.
