1963 Buick Riviera Ignition Switch Replacement Guide

by Alex Braham 53 views

Replacing the ignition switch on your classic 1963 Buick Riviera might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of know-how, it's totally doable. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you get your Riviera back on the road in no time. Let's dive in!

Gathering Your Tools and Materials

Before you even think about touching your beloved Buick, make sure you've got everything you need. Trust me, there's nothing worse than getting halfway through a job and realizing you're missing a crucial tool. Here's a checklist to get you started:

  • New Ignition Switch: This is the most important part! Make sure you get the correct switch for a 1963 Buick Riviera. Double-check the part number to avoid any headaches later.
  • Screwdrivers: You'll need a variety of screwdrivers, both flathead and Phillips head, in different sizes. Having a magnetic screwdriver can also be a lifesaver for those hard-to-reach screws.
  • Socket Set: A good socket set with various sizes is essential for removing nuts and bolts. Make sure you have the sizes commonly used on classic Buicks.
  • Pliers: A pair of pliers, or even better, a set of pliers including needle-nose pliers, will be incredibly useful for gripping, pulling, and bending wires.
  • Wire Strippers/Crimpers: These are crucial for working with the electrical connections. You'll need to strip the wires and crimp new connectors if necessary.
  • Electrical Tape: For insulating any exposed wires and ensuring a secure connection. Don't skimp on quality here; get some good electrical tape that will last.
  • Pen and Paper: Trust me on this one. As you disconnect wires, draw a diagram and label everything. This will save you a ton of time and frustration when it comes to reassembly.
  • Penetrating Oil: If you're dealing with any rusty or stubborn bolts, a shot of penetrating oil can work wonders. Apply it a few minutes before attempting to remove the bolt.
  • Steering Wheel Puller (Possibly): Depending on your Riviera's configuration, you might need a steering wheel puller to remove the steering wheel and access the ignition switch. Check your service manual to be sure.
  • Work Light: Good lighting is essential. A work light will help you see what you're doing, especially in the often-dark confines under the dashboard.
  • Gloves: Protect your hands! Working on cars can be tough on your skin, so a good pair of gloves is a must.
  • Safety Glasses: Always protect your eyes. Debris can fly around, and you don't want to risk an eye injury.

Having all these tools on hand will make the job smoother and safer. Now, let's move on to the actual replacement process.

Step-by-Step Ignition Switch Replacement

Alright, guys, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's how to replace that ignition switch on your 1963 Buick Riviera. Remember to take your time and be meticulous. Rushing things can lead to mistakes that are a pain to fix.

1. Disconnect the Battery

This is the most important step. Before you do anything else, disconnect the negative terminal of your battery. This will prevent any accidental shorts or electrical shocks. Safety first, always!

2. Accessing the Ignition Switch

This is often the trickiest part, as the ignition switch is usually tucked away behind the dashboard. Here’s what you might need to do:

  • Remove the Steering Wheel: As mentioned earlier, you might need a steering wheel puller for this. Follow the instructions that come with the puller to safely remove the steering wheel. Be careful not to damage the steering column or the surrounding trim.
  • Remove the Instrument Panel Trim: You'll likely need to remove some of the trim around the instrument panel to gain access to the ignition switch. Use a screwdriver or a trim removal tool to carefully pry off the trim pieces. Be gentle; these old plastic pieces can be brittle.
  • Locate the Ignition Switch: The ignition switch is usually mounted on the steering column, near the base of the dashboard. It's typically held in place by screws or bolts.

3. Disconnecting the Wiring

Now comes the delicate part: disconnecting the wiring from the old ignition switch. This is where your pen and paper come in handy.

  • Draw a Diagram: Before you disconnect anything, draw a detailed diagram of the wiring connections. Label each wire and its corresponding terminal on the switch. This is crucial for ensuring you reconnect everything correctly later.
  • Disconnect the Wires: Use a small screwdriver or pliers to carefully disconnect the wires from the ignition switch. Be gentle; you don't want to damage the wires or the terminals. If the connectors are corroded, use a wire brush or some electrical contact cleaner to clean them up.

4. Removing the Old Ignition Switch

With the wiring disconnected, you can now remove the old ignition switch.

  • Remove Mounting Hardware: Remove the screws or bolts that are holding the ignition switch in place. Be careful not to drop any of the hardware down into the abyss of the dashboard.
  • Remove the Switch: Gently pull the ignition switch out of its mounting location. If it's stuck, try wiggling it back and forth to loosen it up. Be careful not to force it, as you could damage the surrounding components.

5. Installing the New Ignition Switch

Now it's time to install the new ignition switch. This is essentially the reverse of the removal process.

  • Mount the New Switch: Place the new ignition switch into its mounting location and secure it with the screws or bolts you removed earlier. Make sure the switch is properly aligned and securely fastened.
  • Reconnect the Wiring: Using the diagram you created earlier, reconnect the wires to the new ignition switch. Make sure each wire is connected to the correct terminal. Push the connectors firmly onto the terminals to ensure a good connection.

6. Testing the New Ignition Switch

Before you put everything back together, it's a good idea to test the new ignition switch to make sure it's working properly.

  • Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the negative terminal of your battery.
  • Test the Switch: Turn the ignition key to the various positions (Off, Accessory, On, Start) and check to see if everything is working as it should. Make sure the car starts and runs properly.

7. Reassembly

If everything checks out, you can now reassemble the dashboard and steering wheel.

  • Reinstall the Instrument Panel Trim: Carefully reinstall the trim pieces around the instrument panel. Make sure they are properly aligned and securely fastened.
  • Reinstall the Steering Wheel: If you removed the steering wheel, reinstall it now. Follow the instructions that came with the steering wheel puller to ensure it is properly installed and torqued to the correct specification.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Even with the best instructions, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are a few common issues you might encounter and how to troubleshoot them:

  • Car Won't Start: If the car won't start after replacing the ignition switch, double-check the wiring connections. Make sure all the wires are connected to the correct terminals and that the connectors are making good contact. Also, check the battery voltage and the condition of the starter.
  • Accessories Don't Work: If the accessories (radio, lights, etc.) don't work, check the wiring connections to the accessory terminals on the ignition switch. Also, check the fuses to make sure none of them have blown.
  • Key Won't Turn: If the key won't turn in the ignition switch, try spraying some lubricant into the keyhole. Also, make sure the steering wheel is not locked. Sometimes, wiggling the steering wheel while turning the key can help.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Replacement

Here are a few extra tips to make the job even easier:

  • Take Pictures: In addition to drawing a diagram, take pictures of the wiring connections before you disconnect anything. This can be a lifesaver if you get confused later.
  • Use Labels: Label each wire with a piece of masking tape and a pen. This will help you keep track of which wire goes where.
  • Work in a Clean Area: Keep your workspace clean and organized. This will help you avoid losing parts and making mistakes.
  • Consult a Professional: If you're not comfortable working on your car's electrical system, don't hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

Replacing the ignition switch on your 1963 Buick Riviera is a challenging but rewarding task. By following these steps and taking your time, you can get your classic car back on the road in no time. Good luck, and happy wrenching!