Ignition on - key out

[btibuzz]

Hi all

hoping someone can point me in the right direction. Tried searching the forums but 'key' is too short so not had a lot of luck.

I removed the cylinder ignition key from my 97 FXD a couple of days ago whilst filling up.

Unfortunately I managed to do this whilst still leaving the ignition on. (I know my mum says I'm just special).

Anyhow the ignition is on, just press start to ride off, and the key won't go back in to turn it off. I can disconnect battery etc but that's a PITA, could leave it on the optimate charger, but still leaves it open to be ridden off when I'm not looking.

Had a quick look to see if I could dismantle the cylinder, but nothing obvious.

Any ideas/suggestion or do I just have to save up for a trip to the dealer?

[Dave63]

Cylinder does not come apart, meaning, it's not servicable. The back is held on with 2 peened rivets. It sounds as if the tumblers have stuck, because the key isn;t supposed to come out with the ignition on.

Delare list for a swith with 2 new keys: $110.

What you can do, is lift the seat, and unplug the switch. It only has 3 wires, and about 6-8" of wire until you get to the plug.

It's one of the easiest bikes to steal....

[btibuzz]

Confirmed what I was looking at

looks like I'll off to the dealer monday to give 'em more of my money

Cheers

Paul

[Thom]

Its pretty easy, fast, and clean to simply take out 1 spark plug - mighty hard to hit the button and ride away on a bike that's missing one too. Chaining the front wheel to a fire-hydrant also seems to help hold theft down.