Ignition switch issues

I hope this is the right forum for this. My 83 Xj750K ignition switch started having problems the other day. I added a fairing and everything seems to have gone well but I can't lock the steering when I turn the bars all the way left or right. The switch seems to not want to push down very far at times and when it does the key doesn't turn to lock it and now on rare occasions the key has a hard time turning to on. Do I need a new ignition switch assembly? I would hate to be stuck someplace and not be able to get back. On another note, for years I have been able to remove the key while it is still running. I'm the original owner so I know there hasn't been any tampering with it.

Thank you.
Joe

 

Is the steering lock and ignition switch one unit and if I replace the ignition switch will that take care of the steering lock? My steering won't lock anymore.

 

Yes, the ignition switch unit has a little piece that sticks out to lock the steering.

 

You should remove the assembly and regrease the locking bar.
It is at the base and can get gunged up and tight.

 

This explains the locking mechanism pretty good

https://www.xj4ever.com/clean and lube the ignition switch.pdf

 

Thank you all for your responses. My next project.
Joe

 

Like most of these projects, the first time you do it might you might feel like a complete noob, but if you are patient and follow the directions you will be fine.

I've done a few ignition switch assemblies now - at first taking out those little springs and wafers out freaked me out. Now it's just mild anxiety.

 

Does anyone know an easy way to put the bolts back in that attach the ignition switch to the frame? My fingers are too big. Do I need to remove the headlight bucket?

 

I would try to tape the screws on what ever you took them off with. Once they are started into the threads you would be able to pull the screwdriver or what ever you are using off and remove the tape. Otherwise, yes you will have to gain better access to the bolts that hold the swx.

Good luck.

 

On my 750 seca; I removed the ”atari” a bit by loosening the bolts but not the connections (kind of bent it away) and loosened the headlight so I could bend it down a bit.

Then a 10 mm socket; fair light and a shaft to the socket made the job (add a reasonable amount of patience too)