Ignition return spring not working

[walkersimpson]

Hey guys so just the other day my ingnition return spring stopped working. I now have to turn the key back myself when starting. Was wondering if anyone else has had this problem and if there is an easy fix or if I'm just going to have to deal with it. Just don't want it to ruin my starter or even the gear from running to long

[Petros]

I have had my whole ignition switch apart, it is not difficult to do. If the spring broke I know of noway to fix it without taking it apart to replace it. You might try putting some spray lubricant down inside to see if it will free the spring.

Otherwise you just have to always remember to retrun the key rather than just letting it go.

[xirdneh]

on the back end of the ignition housing there is a plastic thing with wires and connector
one small screw holds it in place
i have managed to get the screw out and replace the plastic thing (has the spring in it)
its more difficult on non-tilt steering
i think you can still buy that part

[walkersimpson]

Thanks guys will try digging in there and see what I can find and hopefully fix

[Petros]

That reminds me, you can even go to a wrecking yard to get one. It is a common part and separate from the key and cylinder (it attaches to the back of the cylinder). You can get to it by removing the plastic trim around the column. I seem to recall I used a shorty screw driver on my non-tilt steering column.

[xirdneh]

yeah, its a small screw and hard to get to