Problem starting - ignition?

[Mike313]

Hi All,
I'm hoping you can help with this problem. Since last Saturday, I've had a problem starting my F6. On turning the key, I sometimes get nothing at all, no sound from the starter motor. Then on persisting, it coughs into life and it starts!. It has mainly happened on first start in the morning but it is also intermittent so not every morning. I tighten up the battery and cable connections but no difference. I took it to a local mechanic for a quick look, he reckons the battery & starter motor are OK and that it is probably a worn ignition key or ignition lock (or both?). I have always had to jiggle the key to get it to turn so perhaps he's right so I'm assuming he's right.
If so, since I don't know if the problem is with the key or the lock, I'm assuming both might be worn, so would the safest thing be to replace the ingition lock entirely? It's currently on a separate key anyway so having an ignition-only key would not be a problem.
Does anyone have an ignition lock & key in working order they can sell me? Or recommend a source?
Are they easy to remove/install?
Help much appreciated.
Michael.

 

[mojobaby]

do you know if the mechanic checked the brushes on the starter motor?
On the side of the key cylinder you should find a small screw and then there's a spring loaded push in tab on top of the cylinder. I think that the steering has to be unlocked first using your key. Then the cylinder just slides out from its casing.
When its out you could always try "hotwiring" your car to check if the starter works, or take the lock and have another key cut to match the lock

 

[mojobaby]

just thinking again........have your solenoid checked as well, maybe the switch is playing up

 

[Mike313]

Thanks mojobaby I'll give that a go ...

 

[Steve Hennessey]

Check the solenoid by removing the spade connection, attaching a piece of wire to the terminal, flick the other end of the wire on the positive battery terminal and if the solenoid clicks then it's working okay.