328 ignition problem

I had to have my car flat-bedded home yesterday due to a "stuck" ignition. When I turned the key it turned about half-way and stopped. It went far enough to turn on the ABS light and that was it. It would not turn in either direction and wouldn't come out.

FWIW, the steering wheel can be turned from lock to lock. The anti-theft feature that prevents steering wheel movement has not worked since I've owned the car.

I've done a search and have discovered that ignition swith issues ars not uncommon, but I could not find anything on actually removing the switch. Can someone please advise as to the removal of the switch? The car is a 1989 328.

Thanks
John

 

Thanks for the help.
Off to the garage.

 

I have the electric portion of the switch out, and to my untrained eyes it appears to be ok. The key, however, is still stuck in the ignition switch and it still won't turn. How do I remove the switch assembly from the dash? There was mention of a chain saw in the link you provided but I'm afraid I may do more harm than good with that approach.

 

Anybody??

 

Thanks Mitchel.
I've disassembled the electric portion of the system. My current problem is how to remove the mechanical part; the lock assembly that the key is stuck in. I have read every thing I could find regarding this and there's conflicting information. I'll post some pics later.

Thanks again
John

 

One to show the position of the key, and one from behind the dash.
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I was hoping to avoid it, but I removed the steering column in order to get the switch assebembly out. As soon as I removed the switch the key turned and came out. I shook the assembly and something inside it is rattling. I guess I'll take it to a lock smith and see if it can be repaired.