Why would you have to jiggle the key for several minutes to get your 1996 Summit Eagle?

Answer 1

The tumbler, or lock and tumbler is the cylinder shaped object that your key fits into. This is a mechanical device, that when turned, creates an electrical contact sending power to the starter, fuel pump, and ignition system. The tumbler has moving parts that eventually wear out and can make it difficult for you to turn the key. If you are not familiar with this you may want to purchase a manuel which shows the removal and installation. General instructions are all I can give for this partcular vehicle. first, open up the steering column(probably two screws on the under side of steering column). Next, find the cylinder shaped tumbler. It should be incased in a tubelike housing. There is a spring loaded button of sorts that you must press in (a screwdriver or punch works well). As you press this button in you then slide the tumbler out toward the passenger side. To replace, simly push the new tumbler into the casing, making sure that you line the spring loaded button up with the opening on the bottom of the tumbler housing. It should pop into place. Then reassemble the plastic cover around the steering column. If your key turns easy then the tumbler isn't your problem. In this case, It is probably your ignition switch. Smetimes the contact points wear out and fail to pass the current onto your starter. Many modern ignition switches are connected to the back side of the tumbler housing(closest to the drivers side). If you are getting power to the signal wire on your starter(the small wire connected to the starter) when you crank on the key, then your starter is probaly the culprit. Also check that you have a good, tight, clean ground. This runs from the negative post on your battery and bolts to the frame or some other significant piece of metal. Check both ends for a good connection and make sure the cable is undamaged. Check the cable that runs from the positive post on the battery to the relay box in the engine compartment. For this you will have to remove the the plastic cover on the relay box. Again check both sides of the cable for a good connection. Check that cable is not corroded or slightly broken. Have fun! Chris