Re: stuck shifting column and ing. key

i went out to try starting my 1974 merc comet and the key wouldnt budge. any suggestions?

Ok, 74'. Key is on the column. If it is a column shifter, grab the shifter reaching across the top with your left hand and pull upward with a fair amount of force, but not so much that you will be bending the shifter or breaking it out of the mount. Then using your knees to wiggle the steering wheel, try turning the key. If that doesn't work and you want to keep the column intact, call a locksmith. The damaging way, only in an emergency or the car is a junker, a few hits with a hammer from the left to right against the outer key collar will usually knock the lock out. Then a screwdriver can be used to start the car.

Does the steering wheel lock on that vehicle. Most of the time I've had problems with vehicles and the key won't turn where the steering wheel is also locked, you can grab the left side of the steering wheel with your left hand, pull down all of your weight on it, picking you up out of the seat. If the steering wheel doesn't give when you try that and feels solid, instead put your left hand on the right side of the steering wheel and pull down with all of your weight. And take your right hand to turn the key. Works most of the time.