Ignition Key Turns All-the-Way 'Round

[Joe500]

Could someone give me some suggestions how to fix this problem? Something broke on the instrument panel and now it no longer holds the ignition assembly in place. When I turn the key, the whole assembly turns making it impossible to start the engine unless I reach my other hand around the back and hold the wiring and base. The ignition assembly seems to have a groove to hold it in place but the plastic on the panel that probably held it in place has broken off. I'm attaching four photos. Thanks.

[sundown]

Why not replace the ignition assembly they are not expensive and should be readily available from just about any marine/auto supply store. If you don't want to replace the switch you could try coating a ound the hole with vasaline then make up an epoxy filler such a Marine Tex to bond to the ignition assembly and fit tightly in the hole. As long as you don't stick anything to the console you should be able to get the ignition assembly out if you ever have to.

[speedoo]

Or you could call Volvo and find out how to fix it.

[tbone]

Or take A pair of channel locks (Large plyirs) and thghten it till it cant turn. If there are not enough threads to tighten. cut A cardbord gasket with A pair of scizzers to use up the space.

[David M]

I would not fuss with trying to fix it. As expensive as Volvo parts are, call a Volvo parts supplier and replace the broken part. At least you will know its going to work when you most need it.

If you don't want to pay Volvo's highway robbery prices then I would bed it down with Sikaflex 5200. Epoxy probably wont work because you wont be able to get enough in there without it dripping out before it cures.

[S/V Illusion]

or you could hit it on the side of the head with a dictionary

[David M]

Play nice Illusion.

[GordMay]

If I understand correctly (I don't always), the problem seems to be with the engraved mounting plate, not the switch. A new plate will cost on the order of several hundreds of dollars (or more if bought from Volvo dealer).
If tbone’s “tighten it up” friction fix won’t work, then I’d try David’s adhesive (3M, not Sika ‘5200') fix.
Failing those, you could mount a separate key switch elsewhere, and a push button (in original hole).