Replacing Ignition Barrel

[codo]

Hi Guys.

Trying to remove the old ignition barrel from the steering column so I can fit my new one, but with limited success.

 

I do not have the original key and so have drilled the top pin. I tried to remove the circlip from the slot on the back of the column, but there does not appear to be one on there. The ignition will come out about 1/2", but no more. Is there anything else I need to do to get this out, bearing in mind I don't have the key?

 

Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

 

Cheers,

 

Dan

[Guest mikea]

I remember doing this ... I butchered it so much that I had to get another upper steering column.

[codo]

I can see that being a very big possibility for me as well!!

 

Would I be best cutting my losses and just getting another column with keys?

[Guest Tweedy]

Haynes covers this but there are two types.The circlip removal relates to taking the lock out of its barrel.First to remove the switch and lock the key should be in position "I".You then depress the spring clip either through a rectangular hole or with a small rod through a hole on top of the housing.You should then be able to withdraw the switch and barrel together.To remove the barrel from the cylinder insert the key fully and remove the circlip.Then withdraw the key approx 5mm and the barrel should withdraw.HTH

[Guest Ian & Carole]

The problem Dan has is .........he says he hasn't got the key!!

 

It might be worth drilling down the "key slot" with ever increasing drill size and hope to implode the barrel ??

 

Once the barrel has been drilled it might be dug out with a fine chisel or knackered screw driver.

 

End of the day, Dan, you have nothing to loose.

 

HTHs

[codo]

Thanks Ian,

Thought that might be the way to go, but seem drastic at the time. As you say, I have nothing to loose!!

 

Thanks Again

[Guest dinger]

The ignition barrel has to be in the first position which is usually the accesory, like Ian said, the best bet is to drill down into the barrel so you can eventually turn it with a screw driver, Once in the first position you'll need to press in the release button underneath the barrel,

 

The other option which may butcher the column it to get a slide hammer with a very large screw on the end, screw it into the barrel and with one swift hit the barrell should come out, the only down side is it may damage the undreneath of the barrell tube where it locks in,

 

 

good luck

[Guest bob13]

One thing I did on a old escort of mine when I had to change a column was to hacksaw the top off the lock (had a new column from scrap yard with no key). Between where the lock mechanism meets the column. This then give you access to the inside of the lock, simple from there on and no damage to the column

 

hope this helps Bob....

[Guest Sharky]

Hi Codo

 

I had the very same problem and spent ages trying to work out what to do! I too had drilled the holding pin and could get about a cm out of the barrel but then no further. After much deliberation I kept coming back to the same conclusion - hit it with something heavy and be done with it!

 

So after a half bottle of red one Saturday night, I thought bu**er it and went into the garage and clamped the column in my vice (with rags etc) and then got a drift and large hammer - two swift punts and it was out!

 

Luckily no internal damage and the new barrel slides in operates correctly and unlocks/comes out a treat. Shimples!

 

Nowt to lose!

 

Good luck!

 

Sharky

[Snapperpaul]

Took mine to the local locksmiths

[codo]

Well a massive thanks to Mr Bob!! Hacksawed the top of the old barrel off, removed the insides of the barrel and with swift turn of a screwdriver the old barrel came out.

 

Have now fitted the new barrel which works great, with even the steering lock working!!

 

Extra Kudos points for Mr Bob!!

 

Thanks for all the suggestions!

[Guest bob13]

Well a massive thanks to Mr Bob!! Hacksawed the top of the old barrel off, removed the insides of the barrel and with swift turn of a screwdriver the old barrel came out.

 

Have now fitted the new barrel which works great, with even the steering lock working!!

 

Extra Kudos points for Mr Bob!!

 

Thanks for all the suggestions!

 

Glad it worked well for you, happy building.

 

bob.