How can I change the ignition lock?

You need a key to remove the lock without destroying it.

If you don't have a key that will work in the lock, then you'll probably have to cut through the tumblers with an electric drill. See HORSEHEAVEN's reply in this Vintage Mustang Forum discussion: Removing ignition cylinder without old keys??.

Here's what the 1965 shop manual says:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal from the battery.
2. Turn the ignition key to the accessory position. Slightly depress the pin (insert a stiff wire into the small hole on the cylinder face, just below the key slot), turn the key counterclockwise, and pull the key and lock cylinder out of the the switch assembly. If only the lock cylinder is to be replaced, proceed to Step 9.
3. Press on the rear of the switch and rotate the switch 1/8 turn counterclockwise (as viewed from the terminal end). Remove the bezel, switch, and spacer.
4. Remove the nut from the back of the ignition switch. Remove the accessory and gauge feed wires from the accessory terminal of the switch. Pull the insulated plug from the rear of the switch.
5. If a new ignition switch is to be installed, insert a screwdriver into the lock opening of the ignition switch and turn the slot in the switch to a full counterclockwise position.
6. Connect the insulated plug with wires to the back of the ignition switch. Position the accessory and gauge wires on the ignition switch stud and install the retaining nut.
7. Position the spacer on the switch with the open face away from the switch.
8. Place the bezel, switch, and spacer in the switch opening, press the switch toward the instrument panel and rotate it 1/8 turn to lock it in position.
9. If a new lock cylinder is to be installed, insert the key in the cylinder and turn the key to the accessory position. Place the lock and key in the ignition switch, depress the pin slightly and turn the key counterclockwise. Push the lock cylinder into the switch. Turn the key to check the lock cylinder operation.
10. Connect the battery cable and check the ignition switch.

According to the Chilton's Ford Mustang/Cougar 1964-73 Repair Manual, disconnect the negative cable from the battery, put the transmission into reverse (manual) or park (automatic), turn the key to the ON position and depress the release pin with a stiff wire. If you have a tilt steering wheel, the lock-release pinhole is on the steering column below and forward of the key cylinder. If you have a fixed-position steering wheel, you must remove the steering wheel to get to the release pin.

Submitted by a65ragtop

Return to the Vintage Mustang FAQ