HELP! just bought an explorer and.... no key???

[matze]

well i just bought me an explorer and they coundlt find they keys.....is there any way to get the old one out with out totally tearing it up? possibly.... i need help b/c i would really like to have an ignition switch (cyl and keys) anyway the thing just spun around and around but didnt move the cylinder at all.....not a bit.....is there any way this can be done... w/o smashing everything i am all ears..........Thanks.....

 

[red85]

What year is the Explorer? If it's an early one just go down to your local auto parts store and buy a new key cylinder. Shouldn't cost more than about 30 bucks.

 

[mudnsnow]

Yes, but you can't remove the cylinder easily without the key.......
But it can be done without to much damage.

Remove steering wheel, remove upper and lower steering column shrouds, Use a 1/8" drill bit to drill the retaining pin(but don't drill deeper than 1/2")
Place a chiesel at base of lock cylinder cap and breakcap away from the from the lock cylinder.Use a 3/8 drill bit to drill the center of lock cylinder key slot.Drill approx 1 3/4" and the lock cylinder should come off. Carefully clean all the area before installing the new lock cylinder.

 

[matze]

Well it isnt easy but.....

well that isn't easy but thanks i will have to try that ...........Thanks a million.....what pin are you talking about exactly......?

 

[matze]

alrighty it is out and the new one is in....turns out that my dad worked on it all day while i was at work and was trying to start it when i got home and well a battery and some fresh gas she fired right up and ran ^-^ thanks again

 

[mudnsnow]

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

FWIW to anyone else with a similar problem (should anyone search and come across this), if you have AAA, you can call them and tell them you lost the key, they'll send someone out to cut you a new ignition key, usually free of charge. I did that with a BII I bought.