Is there a rod that connects the ignition switch on the column to the key cylinder?

Yes

The guy who previously owned the car couldn't fix the key cylinder and wired a push button start instead. I have replaced the key cylinder and I want to be able to start the car using the keys. I havent been able to find the rod on the column and was wondering where to locate one.

I have several extras, PM your address and I'll send you one in the mail. Unless you happen to be in southern AZ in which case I'll bring it to you and show you how to install and adjust it.

I figured you had a car someone had "borrowed" at one time or another as thieves would jam a screw driver in the ignition switch (keyhole) and the twist to shear the pin in the steering column that locked it; then yank the rod (which generally bent it) to start the car using the electrical switch at the base of the steering column.

I had a '71 Nova I bought at auction that had been recovered stripped, and a '73 Camaro as project cars that had suffered that fate (back when these cars were sold for the price of scrap).

Didn't mean to come across as being a smart Alec (though as a punster I have a real hard time resisting a straight line).


Big Dave

My buddies dad told me that at one time someone tried to steal the car. He had a friend that just wired a push button instead of fixing it the right way. When the local police pull me over they think I stoled the car by the look of my key Ignition.