ignition switch replacement

[lost in Home]

I am really hoping that someone out there has an answer, the ignition switch on my 82' DL wagon, [there are no model numbers anywhere on the car like 240 or ?] stopped working, after only 187,000 miles. I turned the key it went clunk and now it won't shut off or start the engine or anything; it's like there is nothing inside of it, Ok; I know I need to replace it but I have never in my life seen such a thing as this ignition switch, not only the size of the thing [it is huge] but especially the way it is secured to the vehicle [bolted to the steering chaft]. So, How do I get it out? I took off everything that was visible, removed all the screws and clips I could find but there is a metal bar across the bottom of the steering wheel shaft and it almost appears to be rivited in the middle, the switch itself seems to be secured to the steering shaft by two large machine screws which are covered by this metal cross piece. Any tips out there on how to get at those screws to get the ignition switch out for replacement? I can't seem to get this cross piece loose enough to even slide out of the way a little bit to get to those screws and I REALLY, REALLY don't want to break anything.
I typed a search into yahoo for volvo ignition switch [replace]which gave me this site but I can't find anything in here about ignition switches. But to be fair none of the other sites listed had anything either. By the way since I have the DL wagon [what does that DL mean anyway] why is it that it does't seem to be on many of the lists I find, even in parts store sites? And speaking of parts stores I couldn't help but notice that they all seem to have the same exact menu format, what is up with that?
Ok, hope to hear back from one or more of you. As I am stuck out in the woods, like 40 miles from the nearest large city and its too far to walk I am realy hoping this internet thing lends some much needed help.
Thanks for your time Jon [Ps what is BB code and what are similes that the message options is asking me about? I have never run across them before]

[Guest]

I can answer one of your questions about your 240 DL. "DL" stands for "de luxe", meaning the deluxe model-which is nothing to talk about. DLs usually have velour seats, no sunroofs etc. "GL" stands for "gran luxe" which is the upscaled version with sunroof, leather etc.

[Volvord]

The ignition switch is very easy to replace. You don't remove the key portion or any of the massive bits and pieces.

Under the dash on the back side of the ignition switch is the small elecrctrical switch part of the unit. Simply unplug the modular connector from the back of the switch then using a blade screwdrive undo the two screws that hold the switch onto the back of the key assembly.

You will find the positions you have to get into under the dash a little uncomfortable, and the screws are partially hidden but the operation usually only takes half an hour at the most

[Arete]

My 81 204 DL went through that. Make sure the wire to the starter is connected. A cheap way to fix the starter issue is to install a push-botton starter and start it the way the early 40s cars were started. You can disconnect the ignition switch to the starter and then if the key still turns on all other functions, this would be the poor mans way out.

[93Regina]

The ignition switch is very easy to replace.

Nice photos here

It's been suggested if dash was removed, it might be easier to access, if you know how to remove dash.