We're not completely certain where the first key-operated ignition switches appeared. However, we are certain they've made the world safer for our automobiles. Think of the ignition switch as your Mustang's sentry. It acknowledges only the key you were given with the car, bringing your Mustang's engine and all of its accessories to life with a twist. The ignition switch, its lock cylinder, and your key keep things personal.
Things become impersonal whenever the ignition switch or lock cylinder fail to do their jobs. Few things make us feel more defeated than a car that won't start. The truth is, ignition switches rarely fail. They typically work faithfully year after year. However, many classic Mustangs still have their factory ignition switches and lock cylinders, installed when Lyndon Johnson was president. It may be time for a change.
The '65-'66 Mustang ignition...
The '65-'66 Mustang ignition switch (shown) is tied to the electrical system with a multiplex plug. The center post is for accessories. This switch is retained by a spring-loaded push-and-turn escutcheon.
For 1967, the Mustang's ignition...
For 1967, the Mustang's ignition switch changed for one year only. Think of the '67 ignition switch as a little bit of old and a little bit of new. It looks different with a fat barrel and a screw-on escutcheon, but it retains the '65-'66-style center accessory power post and multiplex plug.
This is the plug-in, '68-'69...
This is the plug-in, '68-'69 ignition switch. Gone is the center accessory post. Because this switch's load factor was apparently too high, it tended to cook the wiring, so Ford included a new plug with the replacement switch.
When Ford went to locking...
When Ford went to locking steering columns in 1970, it completely changed the ignition switch's appearance. For 1970 only, the ignition switch was located below the top collar and actuated by a rod tied to the ignition lock cylinder, located at 4 o'clock on the column. It's easy to replace. One problem-it's not available new.
This is the '71-'73 Mustang...
This is the '71-'73 Mustang ignition switch. Because Ford changed the steering column's design for 1971, the switch was located further down the column near the bottom. Access is even easier.
'65-'66 Ignition Switch Replacement
The ignition lock cylinder is removed first. Turn the ignition left to "ACC" and insert a paper clip into the hole beneath the key hole. Turn the key counterclockwise to 9 o'clock.
The paper clip presses a release....
The paper clip presses a release. When the lock cylinder is turned to 9 o'clock, the cylinder slides right out.
The ignition switch's escutcheon...
The ignition switch's escutcheon is a press-and-turn setup. Once you've disconnected the plug from behind, hold the switch and escutcheon, then push the switch toward you and turn it clockwise. It should release from the escutcheon and pop out.
The spring load and lock pins...
The spring load and lock pins keep everything together. The ignition lock cylinder secures the package.
Install the cup on the new...
Install the cup on the new ignition switch as shown.
Position the new switch, cup,...
Position the new switch, cup, and spring in place. Insert the escutcheon. Push the two together and turn the switch counterclockwise.
Install the ignition lock...
Install the ignition lock cylinder by inserting it at 9 o'clock,....
....then turning clockwise....
....then turning clockwise. It will click and lock into place. Check for proper operation.
Install the plug as shown...
Install the plug as shown here. We're showing you this installation outside the vehicle. The plug is retained with a self-locking nut on the center post. The center post is for accessory leads. These leads must always be protected by a fuse.
'67-'68 Ignition Switch Replacement
For 1967, Ford made ignition switch replacement easier. Instead of a push-and-turn escutcheon, the '67-'68 switch employs a screw-on escutcheon, serviceable with a special tool available from Mustangs Etc. This switch is secured with a bracket that ties it to the dashboard.
The '67-'68 ignition switch...
The '67-'68 ignition switch is installed with a bracket to provide stability.
A screw-on escutcheon ties...
A screw-on escutcheon ties the switch to the dashboard in front.
The ignition lock cylinder...
The ignition lock cylinder removes the same way as the '65-'66. Turn to "ACC," insert the paper clip, then turn to 9 o'clock. The cylinder will pop out.
For 1967 only, there is a...
For 1967 only, there is a '65-'66-style plug, with a center accessory post retained with a self-locking nut.
For 1968-'69, the Mustang's...
For 1968-'69, the Mustang's ignition switch became a plug-in unit, without the center post. This plug tends to run a little hot in regular operation.
'69 Ignition Switch Replacement
The '69 Mustang ignition switch is a stand-alone design. Although this is the same ignition switch used in 1968, it installs differently in a completely different dashboard.
Remove the lock cylinder the...
Remove the lock cylinder the same as for the '65-'68 models. Turn the key to "ACC," then insert the paper clip and turn to 9 o'clock.
Turn the lock cylinder to...
Turn the lock cylinder to the 9 o'clock position, then pull it out of the ignition switch.
For '69 models, the ignition...
For '69 models, the ignition switch is retained with a screw-in escutcheon. Turn the escutcheon counterclockwise and remove it.
This is a view of the '69...
This is a view of the '69 panel from behind. The ignition switch fits into the opening, which provides support. There is no bracket, as there is in '67-'68 models. There is also an ignition-switch light position for the '69.
Because this ignition switch...
Because this ignition switch is a '68 type, it employs a tab at 6 o'clock that fits into the '69 dashboard.
The '69 ignition switch installs...
The '69 ignition switch installs the same way it removes. Fit the ignition switch as shown, then install the escutcheon pieces. Screw it down snug.
The ignition lock cylinder...
The ignition lock cylinder reinstalls beginning at 9 o'clock, just as in the'65-'68.
'70 Ignition Switch Replacement
The '70 Mustang was similar to the '69. However, government-mandated safety and antitheft changes meant the '70 would be considerably different inside, with a one-year-only, locking steering column. The ignition lock cylinder locks the steering column when the ignition is in the "off" position. When the steering column is unlocked to start the engine, you're moving a linkage inside the steering column that operates the ignition switch, located halfway down the column. Replacement is easy. All you have to do is remove the plastic steering-column cover.
Disconnect the switch and...
Disconnect the switch and remove the linkage pin, located where the linkage and switch join.
Remove two nuts and remove...
Remove two nuts and remove the switch.
Install the new switch and...
Install the new switch and secure the nuts. Reinstall the linkage pin.
Turn the ignition switch to...
Turn the ignition switch to "ACC" and pull the switch as far down the column as it will go. Secure the nuts and connect the new switch.
'71-'73 Ignition Switch Replacement
Ford changed the Mustang's locking steering column again in '71-'73 models, moving the ignition switch farther down the column. A long linkage ties the ignition lock cylinder with the ignition switch way down the column. Replacement is a piece of cake.
Remove the ignition switch...
Remove the ignition switch retaining nuts.
Disconnect the linkage from...
Disconnect the linkage from the switch, then disconnect the switch.
Install the new switch and...
Install the new switch and adjust it the same way you would a '70 switch. Turn the ignition key to "ACC" and pull the switch as far down the column as it will move. Secure the nuts and connect the switch.
'70-'73 Lock Cylinder Removal
Lock cylinder removal for '70-'73 Mustangs is different than for '65-'69 models. The steering wheel must be removed. Once removed, press on a release pin inside the column at the lock cylinder. Turn the lock cylinder toward "ACC" and pull it out. To reinstall, turn the lock cylinder all the way to "START" and insert the cylinder.