Annoying electrical prob?

[golf cabry]

I have an annoying electrical problem with my 91 mk1 golf gti convertible. The power supply that becomes live when the key is inserted i.e. gives power to the radio and the electric hood keeps losing power. The only way I can stop the loss of power is to hold the part where the key slot is, tightly to the ignition barrel. Any ideas appreciated.

Cheers

[Helios_Blue_Valver]

sounds like the ignition switch has gone to sh!te to me. may be able to take it apart carefully and clean it but I have never done that on a VW before.

[modulater]

As 8916vGTI said it sounds like the ignition barrel is playing up and not making contact. I would get a tin of WD40 and with the key just in the lock put the straw in and give it a good squirt. This may clear it out enough to make it start working again.

I had a problem on my MK2 16V where the key wouldn't turn in the lock, like it was a different key, tried WD40 and its been sound ever since.

[golf cabry]

8916vGTI, can the ignition switch be taken out without having to drill the ignition barrel out? If so, is it an easy job. I have opened the cowling around the steering wheel column but cannot get into the igntion swith easily.

modulator, cheers for the advice. Will give this a try.

There is a gap in the ignition barrel that when closed appears to complete the electrical circuit. Think this is when my problems lie but suggestions are welcome!