How to remove a stuck ignition barrel VN-VS

[Not_An_Abba_Fan]

It's the start of the problem, replace the barrel while you are still able to turn the key.

[leftleg]

Thanks for the quick reply. I'll get onto it.

[leftleg]

Okay, so I have ordered a replacement barrel from ebay. If I have read this thread correctly, I can replace the barrel without cutting and drilling. If I am reading this wrong can someone please explain it to me in words that can be understood by the village idiot. Pictures would also help.

BTW this forum is an exxcellent resource asI have limited cash for "experts".

[Not_An_Abba_Fan]

Yes you can.

Remove the plastic surround from the bottom of the steering column, there are 2 or 3 screws holding it on from underneath. Unclip the wire going to the key reader. Looking at the right hand side of the barrel towards the bottom there is a hole, turn the key to "ON" and insert a pin (paper clip works) and the just pull the barrel out.

You can key the new barrel to the old one fairly easily, once you get the new barrel you will see how it is done. You will need to assemble the spring clip that holds the barrel in place as well. Pull the old barrel apart taking extra care to keep the brass slides in the correct order, these are numbered and you will need to fit the new slides in the same order.

It sounds harder than it is, once you see the new barrel and start pulling the old one apart, you will see how easy it actually is.

[leftleg]

Just waiting for the part to arrive. Sounds easy enough. Thanks again.

[leftleg]

So I got the new barrel from ebay. I took apart the steering column surround to get to the old barrel. When I put the paper clip in to remove the barrel I had no success. The key pulled out of the ignition and the barrel stayed put. I tried several different positions for the key, all with the same result. Any suggestion?

Anyway the old barrel doesn't appear to stick any more. It was only an occassional problem. So I now have a new barrel to use if the old one gives up on me totally.

[bj42turbo]

So I got the new barrel from ebay. I took apart the steering column surround to get to the old barrel. When I put the paper clip in to remove the barrel I had no success. The key pulled out of the ignition and the barrel stayed put. I tried several different positions for the key, all with the same result. Any suggestion?

Anyway the old barrel doesn't appear to stick any more. It was only an occassional problem. So I now have a new barrel to use if the old one gives up on me totally.

you would struggle with a paper clip I reckon, not impossible but harder....something the diameter of a coat hanger may make it easier....

Dazz

[leftleg]

The coat hanger idea sounds good. WOuld I need to put some graphite into the hole first to free up the locater lug? The car has spent a lot of the time on the coast, I'm wondering if some corrosion may have taken place. Also is it a bad thing that the key can be removed from any position, ie with the engine running?

[Not_An_Abba_Fan]

The spring that holds the locator out is only very light so it takes bugger all pressure to push it in. Was the key in the "ON" position?

[leftleg]

I tried it several times in every position. Each time the key just pulled out of the ignition. I tried coaxing the barrel with a screwdriver also, but no go.

[bj42turbo]

I tried it several times in every position. Each time the key just pulled out of the ignition. I tried coaxing the barrel with a screwdriver also, but no go.

Maybe time to bite the bullet and call a Locksmith

Dazz

[leftleg]

I might have to if it sticks again, but right now it seems ok, and I have the spare barrel anyway. Thanks for all the advice guys, this forum is great.

[padrickz88]

My barrel stuffed up about a month ago to the point the key wouldn't move... All I did was get a centre punch on the bolt and had it angled and just kept tapping it anti clockwise.. Takes a while but eventually it gets it undone... Don't be afraid to give it a couple good hits if needed

Then when putting it back, cut into the head with a hacksaw that way you can screw it back in with a screwdriver... (Also, use locktight)

[noremors]

There is an easier way, doesnt require power tools or drilling, all you need to do is purchase a new Ignition Barrel cost $80-100, bought mine at Holden dealer for $85.
First remove plastic cowling, Indicatore Stalk wich clips out, and Steering wheel.
Now use a hacksaw as the Lock is only soft metal cut the top of,dont worry to much at damaging the lip on the Housing as this lip is part of the Barrel, best buy a new one First. putting the blade in the hacksaw tooth in will allow you to cut easy, now that you can see inside the Barrel, you should notice on both sides there are cut outs where the Gates for the lock are, All you need to do is push the Gates from the lock(brass) so they dont protrude, may take bit of finees and second person is handy to turn the Key. Now all you need to do is put the key to the on position and use a large round object in the access hole above the lock. The lock should slip out quite easy but might be stuborn. If thats the case use a large screw driverto lever out, this is why that lip comes in handy, so dont cut it off!!