TF ignition switch ???

[Trucknut57]

Does anyone know if the ignition switch retainer for a TF truck has the same thread size and pitch as a 67-72 ?

Only reason I'm asking is cause I have a switch from a 67-72 that I want to use in my 57 but I dont want to use the 67-72 retainer because it is so recessed and I would have to open up the hole on the dash.

[LDO]

Truck nut,
I did the exact thing. The 57 retainer ring is a very tight fit, not sure why. I took a strap wrench to it (with switch removed of course) and twisted it on until it went on nice and easy.

[Trucknut57]

Since its so hard to get the 57 retainer on, would I be better off using a different retainer?

[LDO]

that's your call. I'm too stubborn so I kept working it until it went on. You can also try taking the key mechanism out first. Put the retainer ring on, then re install the key part. I think that part is just a little bigger and caused it to be such a tight fit.

[Trucknut57]

Guess I will have to find me a 57 retainer and give it a try, Thanks.

[LDO]

Truck Nut,
I apologize, after re-reading my post, I believe I told you wrong, I actually had to do a couple of things. First, I did use a strap wrench on mine, I guess the threads were a little messed up or something and I didn't have a tap/die set for it but once I got it screwed on, it was nice and easy.

NOW,
the other part of the story is this. I also purchased a new key mechanism as well and the 'face' of if must have been slightly larger than my old one because the retainer nut wouldn't go over it.

Therefore, I used a paperclip to remove the tumbler mechanism, installed the switch in the dash, screwed on the retainer nut and when everything was nice and tight and aligned, I installed the tumbler back into the ignition switch.

Not sure why I had to do all of that, perhaps it is because of using different parts or using 're-pops' but it's working fine and the fit and finish is good too. Might not be an issue for you if you're using your original tumbler as mine seemed to work well with the ret. nut but the face was dinged up pretty bad so I replaced it.

BTW, all of these parts (except ret. nut) were available thru either PepBz or Orileys; even the plastic plug for the back of the ign switch! I kept the boxes for everything so I've got the PNs at the house.

PM me if you run into trouble or need more info.

[Trucknut57]

LDO,
I was doing some research last night and found out that the ign switch for the 67-72 trucks was used in a bunch of cars and trucks from 67-85. Then I looked at the retainer nuts for cars and trucks and found that the 68 Camaro uses a flat retainer nut that looks pretty close to the 57 retainer nut.

NAPA carries an ignition switch that has the lock cylinder and keys for $32.00, sure beats the $50+ for the original switch that doesn't include the cylinder and keys. NAPA also carries the plug for $15. Looks like I'm going to NAPA today.

Thanks for all your help.

[Trucknut57]

FYI:

Just checked the thread pitch on a 57 ignition switch and a 67-72 swicth. The 57 switch has a 32 thread and the 67-72 has a 24 thread. So if you want to use the later model switch then you wont be able to use the 57 retainer nut, unless you do what LDO did with the strap wrench.

[LDO]

Glad I could help!

yeah, i figured the threads may have needed a little 'convincing'...

[la hi]

Would it be cool to have a push button ignition on a 57?

[Trucknut57]

Actually its not that hard to wire in. Since they came with a foot start switch, you would just have to take the wiring for the foot switch and wire up the push button switch and your done.