Suggestions on how to remove the anti theft lock mechanism when the key is removed from the lock. What's the easiest way to go about it? Please no hammers.

GB

You need a key to get the lock mechanism to be removed. Under the dash remove the wiring plug from the back of the ignition switch. take off steering wheel, there is a small plate to the left of the lock that is screwed down, remove the plate and then insert a key, turn and voila it comes right out.

Sounds simple enough. Is this a special factory key? Or can it be drilled out?

Thanks GB

the lock will come out without using the key ...
one the steering wheel is off and the turn signal parts are off, there's a tab you need to press in and the lock will slide out ...
Andy

I think we have a little confusion here
GB is asking how to disable the automatic lock mechnism on the steering column, not how to remove the ingnition switch/lock

But that is the same thing! One must remove the ignition switch, certainly removes easier using the key, to disable the steering column lock - the column lock is engaged by a tab that comes out from the ignition switch, when the key is turned the tab is recessed into the switch and the entire switch can be pulled out of the column.

but, you need to remove the lock in order to get to the mechanism in order to remove it ...
Andy

EDIT: damm, Mr. Harris beat me to it ...

Once the lock is removed, you can try to remove the plunger or epoxy it in place.

ok... I guess the confusion was on my side only

i actually had an early column where the welded on tabs on the shaft were removed by the PO. the lock still had the "tab", but it had nothing to hook into, thus no column locking ...
Andy

Sir Andy, it is a pleasure to be in your company. Got about 2,000 miles on the teener since I put her on the road. Really improved the handling by changing the Pirelli passenger car tires (185x65x15) to Kuhmos (195x50x15), now she goes like a go cart on Meth.