Ignition key stuck

[segtii]

The ignition key in my 74tii is stuck, I can't get it out. Thus, I can drive it, but I can't park it safely.
How do I get the key out?

---- Dennis

[stone02]

does the key turn In the the ignition/

did you put it in upside down?

you might try a few drops of 3 in 1 oil on the key.

is the steering wheel able to turn?

more info or a picture of the key in the

off position please.

stone 

[Hans]

Turn the wheel while pulling?

[2002iii]

Use graphite for locks not oil!!!!

 

Try gently tapping on the key with a small hammer, to loosen the tumblers.

 

Worst case scenario you have to drill the pin out that holds the lock cylinder to the column.

[Mike Self]

Does the key move from park to accessory to ignition on and finally to start?  If so, the above tricks might work.  And make sure you have the ignition key turned to the off position before trying to remove it.

 

If the above tricks don't work, I did a column on unjamming an ignition lock; PM me for a copy. 

 

mike

 

 

[Son of Marty]

1 hour ago, 2002iii said:

Use graphite for locks not oil!!!!

Normally I'd agree, but with the key stuck I would use a light wicking oil and with the key removed flush the lock with contact cleaner then use the graphite. Otherwise You'll need to remove the lock and find out which part is not getting with the program. Get Mikes article they are great.

Edited September 13, 2022 by Son of Marty

[segtii]

Thanks for the suggestions. I mis-spoke, I used graphite, not oil. The key turns freely over the full range from off to start. The steering wheel moves, not locked. Can I drill out the pin holding the tumbler mechanism into the lock assembly while the key is still in the lock?

[Mike Self]

1 hour ago, segtii said:

Can I drill out the pin holding the tumbler mechanism into the lock assembly while the key is still in the lock?

Yes.  If you're lucky and use the correct diameter drill bit, the bit will lodge in the pin and you can spin it out.  With it removed, you may be able to gently push the key out from the back side without further dismantling.  But if you have to dismantle, it will involve filing off a couple of peened-over mounts to remove the cylinder (the part that rotates with the key) and remove it from its housing.  Hopefully the key will come out without having to do that...

 

mike

[gracer]

Try pushing on the cylinder while removing the key.  A tip from an old locksmith.