About Jay Cooney Expertise I can answer any question about any GM steering column with my having over 30 years of GM experience. I will answer general questions on any other steering column manufactured by the major automakers. I will do what I can to help troubleshoot and repair a steering column.
Experience I have over 30 years experience in auto repair. I have repaired or rebuilt thousands of vehicles. My expertise is general and mechanical (gas and diesel) troubleshooting along with a vast electrical background. I have accumulated an extensive library of repair manuals and have researched every car problem from AMC's to Z-71's.
Expert: Jay Cooney Date: 10/15/2006 Subject: how to replace a ignition cylinder mustan gt 96
Question Hi Jay, I have a 96 mustang gt, the key broke inside the lock. I got a new cylinder, but have no clue how-to replace it. It will be nice if you give me an idea on the task thanks jc
Answer Hi Juan,
You will need to disassemble the steering column to get to the lock release. That means removing the air bag (disconnect the battery so it doesn't go off in your face), steering wheel, and probably the turn signal assembly.
If you look on the new lock assembly you should be able to find where the lock tab or catch is oriented in the column, and that should tell how far you need to go to get at the lock.
Had you not already bought the new lock assembly I might have suggested you call a locksmith. You may be surprised at what they charge to fix a broken off key issue. My locksmith can remove the broken key and make me a new one for $25 if I bring it to his shop. If you've ever worked on a column, you'd probably feel like I do and even $50 is worth it. They are time consuming and simply complicated.
