70 Challenger key ignition switch issue???

Out driving, stopped and turned the car off. Later trying to start the car, turned the key to start and no start.
Then the ignition key would not go back all the way to off position.
Knew there was juice because the radio was on
.Got a screw driver and crossed the starter relay and the car turned over and started.
Key would still not go back to off position.


I'm thinking my issue is in the steering column and or ignition switch? Any other possibilities before I start dismantling?

Thanks

Check the transmission interlock linkage. It will prevent the switch from going to the "locked" position. If the linkage is missing might also cause the no start, but doubtful. Easier to check than tearing into the column.
Is it a stick our auto? The stick may have a clutch switch that may be out of adjustment. Unlikely both would happen at the same time BUT???

console auto

Read up on the 1970 only column lockout feature.

If the linkage is gone or out of adjustment, it causes issues.

Worn or broken transmission and engine mounts can affect the linkage geometry also.

Chances are that a rod from the column to the floor shifter linkage is missing. Very common.

Open the hood and look at the column near where the column comes out of the firewall. There will be a large tab sticking out of the column like in the picture.

Rotate the tab clockwise if viewed from the front of the car. Think about the direction it would rotate if you were moving a column shifter into park.

If it moves more than just a little then the linkage has issues.

Rotated all the way it will free the ignition lock.

If it won't rotate then it may just be seriously out of adjustment. The adjustment bolt is under the car at the bottom of the rod from the column tab.

If you are missing a rod then there is an easy long term fix until you find the missing part.

Take one of the small screws that hold the plastic wiring cover onto the bottom of the column. They are real short and not easy to find that short so keep it. Replace it with a longer screw. The longer screw will hit the shifter tube inside the column and prevent it from moving.

Locking the tube in the position to remove the key allows normal key operation. Column will still lock the steering wheel when the key is removed.

Since the shifting is done at the floor it won't matter if the tube is locked as long as there is at least 1 piece of linkage missing between the column and the floor shifter.

This!!!! See if you can twist the lower portion of the column right below the key. It will turn that will unlock the key.

https://www.e-bodies.org/videos/

This will help if you have to take the column apart.

Thanks Glad i have a manual.