
Removing the ignition barrel from a Mk1 Golf can be a challenging task. While some suggest that it can simply be pulled out, others recommend drilling a hole in the aluminium housing to access it. Before attempting removal, it is important to disconnect the battery as the ignition switch is an electrical component. The process involves loosening the Allen bolts that clamp the ignition switch housing to the steering column, unlocking the steering wheel, and ensuring that the key is in the ignition. Once the bolts are loosened, the housing can be removed from the steering column, providing access to the ignition barrel for replacement.
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What You'll Learn

Disconnect the battery
Disconnecting the battery is a crucial step when removing the ignition from your Mk1 Golf. This is because the ignition system is an electrical component, and you will be working with electrics during the removal process.
Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment. You will need gloves and eye protection to ensure your safety while working with the battery and electrical components.
Locate the battery in the engine bay of your Mk1 Golf. It is usually found near the firewall, which separates the engine bay from the rest of the vehicle. The battery will be secured in place with brackets and clamps.
Using the appropriate tools, carefully loosen and remove the brackets and clamps that hold the battery in place. You may need a wrench or a socket set for this step. Once the battery is free, carefully lift and remove it from the engine bay. Place the battery in a safe location, away from any flammable materials or sources of ignition.
Now that the battery is disconnected, you can proceed with the rest of the steps to remove the ignition. Remember to exercise caution and follow the remaining instructions carefully to successfully remove the ignition from your Mk1 Golf.
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Remove the indicator and wiper switches
Removing the indicator and wiper switches is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Firstly, locate the indicator and wiper switches. These are usually found as one unit behind the steering wheel. There are three electrical connectors at the back of the unit that need to be undone. These connectors supply power to the switches and allow them to function. By disconnecting them, you ensure that no electricity is flowing through the switches during the removal process, making it safer to work on.
Once the electrical connectors are undone, you will notice that the unit is attached to the ignition barrel housing with three flathead screws. Using the appropriate screwdriver, carefully remove these screws. One of the electric plug blades is held in place by these screws, so be prepared for it to become loose when you remove the switches. Make sure you keep these screws in a safe place so that you can find them when it's time to reinstall the switches or fit replacement ones.
After removing the screws, the next step is to slide the switches out over the steering column. This should be done with care to avoid any damage to the surrounding components. Depending on the model of your Mk1 Golf, there may be an additional step required. Some later models, such as the 'Clipper' Cabriolet, have a splined adaptor sleeve of a larger diameter pressed over the steering column. This allows for the installation of different steering wheels. Removing this sleeve can be challenging and may require the use of a bearing separator and gear puller.
In summary, removing the indicator and wiper switches on your Mk1 Golf involves disconnecting the electrical connectors, unscrewing the unit from the ignition barrel housing, and carefully sliding the switches out over the steering column. Remember to pay attention to any model-specific variations, such as the presence of a splined adaptor sleeve, to ensure a smooth removal process.
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$15.29

Loosen the bolts clamping the ignition switch housing to the steering column
To loosen the bolts clamping the ignition switch housing to the steering column, you must first remove the steering wheel. Next, remove the screws for the stalks, including the wiring. Then, remove the bolt. At this point, the ignition barrel assembly should slide out. If it does not, you may need to use a puller borrowed from a mechanic, or try hammering it out. You can also try soaking it in WD40.
If you are still unable to remove the ignition barrel assembly, you may need to remove the whole housing. To do this, ensure that the steering wheel is unlocked. Insert the key and turn it to the 'run' position, then turn it back to off but leave the key in so that it won't re-lock. Now, loosen the Allen-head bolt which clamps the ignition switch housing to the steering column. You can then remove the whole housing from the steering column.
It is important to note that if you have a later model Mk1 Golf, there may be a splined adaptor sleeve pressed over the steering column. This can be difficult to remove and may require a bearing separator and gear puller.
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Remove the ignition barrel housing
To remove the ignition barrel housing, you will first need to remove the steering wheel and the plastic cowling. Next, unlock the steering wheel and take the tension off the shaft. You can then remove the indicator and wiper switches, which are attached to the ignition barrel housing with three flathead screws. Once these are removed, simply slide the switches out over the steering column.
Now, you need to disconnect the electrical plug at the back of the ignition barrel. The ignition barrel housing is clamped to the steering column with an Allen bolt on the left side. Loosen this bolt, but do not completely remove it. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the 'run' position, then turn it back to the 'off' position but leave the key in so that it won't re-lock. If the bolt is loose and the key is in, try bumping it with a rubber mallet.
With the key in the 'off' position, slide the ignition barrel housing forward over the steering column. You can now completely remove the Allen bolt. Finally, remove the electrical plug at the back of the ignition barrel. The housing should now be free from the steering column.
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Remove the ignition switch
To remove the ignition switch on a Mk1 Golf, you will need to first disconnect the battery. Then, remove the indicator and wiper switches, undoing the three electrical connectors at the back of the unit.
Next, you will need to remove the steering wheel and the plastic cowling. With these components out of the way, you can access the Allen bolts that clamp the ignition switch housing to the steering column. Loosen these bolts, and if your steering wheel is unlocked, the housing should slide off the steering column.
If the housing is difficult to remove, you may need to use a chisel to spread the area where the Allen bolt was removed. You can also try using a rubber mallet to gently tap on the steering shaft to help loosen it.
Once the housing is removed, you will have access to the ignition switch. The switch is held in place with a single screw, which can be removed to detach the switch.
Please note that this process may vary slightly depending on the specific model and year of your Mk1 Golf. Some models may have additional components or variations in the design that could require additional steps or modifications to this process.
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Frequently asked questions
First, unlock the steering wheel and remove the wheel and plastic cowling bits. Then, loosen the Allen bolts that clamp the ignition switch housing to the steering column. You can then remove the electrical plug and slide the housing off the column.
No, you do not need to drill out the ignition barrel to change the ignition switch.
You will need a screwdriver, a puller, a bearing separator, and a gear puller. You may also need a rubber mallet and a chisel.











































