Sticky ignition

[NaturalSelection]

So it seems that the ignition on my 89 festy is getting kinda sticky. Like when I turn the key to start the car, it wants to stay in the starting position and not move itself back. Can I just use some powdered graphite to loosen it up or is it possible to switch the ignition cylinder? Will a generic one work from autozone? Any help would be appreciated.

[WmWatt]

I spray WD-40 into the keyhole and put the key in and move it around. Contact cleaner should also work. I think graphite would lubricate but not clean. WD-40 also disperses moisture. Good luck.

[NaturalSelection]

Thanks for the reply! I have heard that WD-40 will eventually gum up the cylinder. Ideally I would like to just replace the thing, but I don't know if it is a generic component or not.

[bravekozak]

Natural, the spring that is sticking is in the switch that the wires are attached.
If you remove the screw that holds it to the ignition key cylinder, you will discover a slot that you can insert a screwdriver into to test. Separate it to determine if that is the case. If so, then spraying wire dressing number forty into the keyhole will do absolutely nothing at all.

[ricko1966]

Key and tumblers as a result if constant turning and rubbing fi with tiny brass scrapping remove the cylinder bang it on a hard surface a couple of times spray with brake cleaner bang a couple more times goal is to clean the cylinder.Use brake clean or rubbing alcohol not penetrating oils the petroleum gums up with more shavings,dirt,dust,etc.