Ignition switch removal

[Bullshark]

My 2001 Alero's ignition switch key cylinder looks to be bad, I am unable to turn the key from the off position. I have everything removed with the exception of the shift lock cable. I have depressed the lock tab as discribed on another thread in this forum, with no success. I am wondering if the key has to be in the on position before the cable can be pulled out. Any one know or have some helpful guidance?
Also, if the key cylinder is bad and cannot be turned to the on position. Is there a way to remove the lock cylinder without destroying the switch module?
Thanks
Bullshark

[Bullshark]

I finally was able to remove the ignition switch assembly by bending a bracket down at the center console. I then removed the switch assemly along with the locking cable.



The cable was locked into the switch assembly and could not be removed by pressing the release cable button shown above. I then seperated the switch assembly by prying the lock tabs open around the center of the switch assembly. I was then obvious that the cable was locked into position when the key was in the off position. see below:



With the switch now seperated I was able to rotate the switch mechanisim to the on position and easily remove the cable.





Now, the next question is how do I get the lock cylinder out of the front ignition assembly without damaging it.

Any ideas??





Bullshark

[Bullshark]

Originally Posted by Bullshark

Now, the next question is how do I get the lock cylinder out of the front ignition assembly without damaging it.

Any ideas??





Bullshark

Update......... I was able to finally remove the lock cylinder by first partially depressing the cylinder lock button and sliding the cylinder out just a slight bit. I then inserted a small flat blade screw driver in the slot highlighted below. Not sure what the screwdriver did, but it felt like it may have moved some of the tumblers. I then played with the key in various positions and with the key partially inserted low and behold, the cylinder turned into the on position. That enabled me to fully depress the lock button and remove the cylinder.




I was then able to salvage the ignition switch ( $100 item at O'Reilly's) and purchased a new lock cylinder. The Passlock connector could now be easily removed from the ignition switch housing shown below



Reassembled the ignition switch in the dash and was back in business.



Thanks guys.... I couldn't have done this without all your help. .....


Bullshark