Ignition cylinder locking

[Reaperdoc]

I have a '98 that does not rotate the ignition cylinder out of lock. I couldn't get any key to work this morning but after a bit of WD-40 all looked fine. Ran an errand and the thing would not turn again. I removed the shroud from the column but found nothing obvious. Locked hard, as in no turn forward. Finally got it to turn and start, but now I do not want to remove the key for the same thing to happen. Any help appreciated. As is, the truck must have the key in and that's not a good practice!

 

[aspevacek]

You may have the column lock pressing to hard to one sid eor the other. My Honda used to do that all the time. Turn the steering wheel back and forth a bit while trying to rotate the ignition key. It may move more in 1 direction then the other, it may not even move to one side at all. You are trying to get the pressure off the locking tab so when the key is roatated it will release.

 

[Reaperdoc]

That was exactly my first thought this morning, and that isn't it. That's what has me a bit stumped. Just have to park it carefully tonight and keep at it in the morning.

 

[Tedybear]

The only lube to really use that works? Will be a graphite in a liquid base propellent. I think NAPA still sells the can. Lock-eaze...or something like that. That will give a more long lasting coating that should help. From the sounds of it? It's more likely that you might need to have the ignition key cylinder replaced in the near future.

S-


edit: Wear gloves and watch for any over spray.....that graphite can make a huge mess if not done carefully.