Steering / Ignition Locked Up

[onepercent]

I have a 98 E250 -
I got in this morning and the steering wheel is locked up along with the ignition. The steering wheel is about 90 degrees to the left while the wheels are pretty much still perfectly straight. The steering wheel has about an inch or 2 of play in it. The ignition is locked in the off position and has zero play in it. I have tried the usual "jiggle back and forth while trying to turn the ignition" and "pull hard to either side while trying to turn the ignition" methods. I have been trying these methods for about 5 hours now and I am awaiting a service guy right now.

Is there any other options? I have taken the horn/airbag centerpiece off the steering wheel as well as the underside panel. I cannot remove the upper panel because the "shroud" of the ignition will not allow it to be removed.

Can I access the locking pin from somewhere? Even if i have to drill a hole or two?

I am pretty much NOT a mechanic in any way shape or form, but I am very capable of doing the work myself. I just need the diagrams or precise directions.

Thanks in advance,
Ray

raysosnowski@comcast.net