replacing ignition

a friend was recently given a 1991 tarus, after replacing plugs and wires, the car runs great. The prolem is the ignition. The former owner lost his keys, and unfortunatly trusted the wrong person to try and solve his problem. Instead of taking the door lock to a locksmith, and easly obtaining a new key, he destroyed the ignition with attemps to "jerry rig" a solution. I bought a new switch and was ready to install,(have replaced switches in older cars) The problem is, the instructions say to remove the steering wheel, is this true? (it appears that installation is possble with the steering wheel in place, but I could be wrong. Also, if the steering wheel does need to go, how is this done? (has an airbag) thanks...

Hello:
The steering wheel and airbag do not have to be removed to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The covers need to be removed and you will have to destroy the old lock, turn and break the innermost tab and push the locking pin in all without being able to turn the lock. Look at the new lock to see what I am talking about. The innermost tab can only be removed in the "on" position and since you cannot turn it to on, yo have to break it off. continued pounding on the locking tab will often accomplish this. The you need ot remove the old broken piece from the housing once the lock comes out
Good Luck