Ok I've got a quick question. My ignition lock cylinder is FUBAR, to the point where the key will only stay in the run position, and can be moved only to the start position. So the car runs, but I can only shut it off by pulling the PCM fuse.

Anyways, the car is an '89 with VATS, however I had to have the VATS system disabled about 7 years ago because it was not working properly. My question is, knowing that, can I order a standard GM lock cylinder and install it without any problems? Or do I require a VATS lock cylinder, even though the VATS doesn't function?

Thanks for the help

 

I would go ahead and get the VATs cylinder so you can be sure to have no fitment issues when you take the column apart. It's not that much more expensive, and if you go ahead and cut off the wires (since you don't need them anyway) it's not a big job to put in.

 

Thanks for the advice J. Fitament was the main thing I was worried about, and I didn't know if there was any difference between the chip vs. non-chip cylinders. And I also wanted to be sure there was no operation issues when switching the 2 types. But you're right, better to order the correct replacement, then to take apart the wheel and find out something doesn't quite fit right.

 

I have a 89 Iroc that came with a standard ignition lock cylinder in the steering column from where the previous owner was too lazy or stupid to properly install the VATS lock cylinder. There was not a problem with the fit in the column. BTW, the previous owner of mine took the VATS lock cylinder, put a uncut coded key in it, connected the harness, wrapped it up in about a roll of electrical tape and stuck it up under the dash in the wire bundles.