01 LS How do I get the ignition switch cylinder out?

[Paul Parker]

My keys won't turn in the ignition suddenly. The dealer (last resort) told me to call a locksmith, but the locksmith won't touch an LS. I can't find it in the FMC manual, either. Anyone have any ideas, short of calling Salvation Army?

 

[joegr]

http://deneau.info/ls/s6x~us~en~file=s6x1e019.htm~gen~ref.htm

Unfortunately, your key has to turn the cylinder to get it out.
Find a real locksmith.

 

[G-RELL]

have a key remade.. although ford wont make one for you anymore (older than ten years) a locksmith should be able to guess just by looking what (tooth) is worn. (assuming thats your problem)

 

[Telco]

Is the car's steering wheel turned hard to one side? If so try forcing the wheel until it's centered between the locks (wheel shouldn't turn more than a quarter inch or so), then try it again. Steering wheels have a key interlock to keep the wheel from turning unless the key is in place. If the wheel has a lot of pressure against it, it can lock the key cylinder keeping the key from turning.

 

[joegr]

No steering wheel lock on the LS!

 

[G-RELL]

...in the USA....(IIRC)

 

[joegr]

...in the USA....(IIRC)

True, but even on the few with steering locks outside the US, Telco's advice does not apply. The few with steering locks, use electric/electronic locks. There is no physical connection to the ignition lock cylinder at all.

 

[LS4me]

I know..... Is the trans fully in Park???

 

[Telco]

Yes, I thought about a disclaimer about the LS possibly not having something most every other car in the US has, but I deleted it. Bad on me, I guess.

 

[Paul Parker]

Thanks, guys. The steering wheel of course does not lock, and it was in park. The shifter could not be moved at all.
The tow truck came to get it, the guy got in and turned the key. He got a huge tip, and I got my car back... for now.

Still need to know... how do I get that cylinder out? I'd like to redo it now while I can.

 

[G-RELL]

well to remove you take the trim off and remove the (2?) bolts.. I dont remember anything complicated about the cylinder/housing... now to DISASSEMBLE the cylinder, thats another... not sure what you mean by "redo"

 

[joegr]

...Still need to know... how do I get that cylinder out? I'd like to redo it now while I can.

Did you forget about post #2?

 

[1LoudLS]

Still need to know... how do I get that cylinder out?

this

post #2