# 1982 Chevy C30 starting problem

**URL:** <https://community.cartalk.com/t/1982-chevy-c30-starting-problem/92689>\
**Category:** Maintenance/Repairs\
**Created:** [March 4, 2016, 5:14pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/1982-chevy-c30-starting-problem/92689 "2016-03-04T17:14:29Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 4\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![j-bob](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/j/b782af/32.png) [@j-bob](https://community.cartalk.com/u/j-bob)\
**Post date:** [March 4, 2016, 5:14pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/1982-chevy-c30-starting-problem/92689/1 "2016-03-04T17:14:29Z")

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Hi,  
I have a 1982 Chevy C30 pickup with an ignition problem. When it’s really cold out, 15 degrees or colder, it won’t start. When I turn the key, it feels like I’m turning a piece of clay. There is NO cranking, clicking or any sound made. The accessories won’t work either. The last time this happened, I heated the ignition tumbler with a heat gun and the truck started. It started one time after that. Then on a warm day it started once; then wouldn’t restart. I turn the key and nothing. It had to be towed. I wondering if the problem is the ignition tumbler, where I put the key, or the ignition switch, which is located near the bottom of the steering column.  
Any help is appreciated.  
Thanks,  
Jeff

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**Author:** ![missileman](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/cartalk/user_avatar/community.cartalk.com/missileman/32/1366_2.png) [@missileman](https://community.cartalk.com/u/missileman)\
**Post date:** [March 4, 2016, 5:28pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/1982-chevy-c30-starting-problem/92689/2 "2016-03-04T17:28:05Z")

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What you need is a good independent mechanic. If you are handy with tools then replace the ignition switch since the key switch is working.

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**Author:** ![Rod-Knox](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/r/a183cd/32.png) [@Rod-Knox](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Rod-Knox)\
**Post date:** [March 4, 2016, 5:55pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/1982-chevy-c30-starting-problem/92689/3 "2016-03-04T17:55:36Z")

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I suspect that the ignition lock rack is broken and if so it’s not something for an inexperienced DIYer to jump into.

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**Author:** ![Mustangman](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/cartalk/user_avatar/community.cartalk.com/mustangman/32/44130_2.png) [@Mustangman](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Mustangman)\
**Post date:** [March 4, 2016, 7:13pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/1982-chevy-c30-starting-problem/92689/4 "2016-03-04T19:13:38Z")

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I think you can remove the ignition switch itself from the rod the key mores to start the truck. Disconnect the switch and try and start it with a screwdriver moving the switch. Sounds like there is a bunch of goo in the switch from your description. The switch is only about $15. You could just buy a new one.