1988 Firebird L98 Auto.

When I bought the car, it needed a steering column. Current one was loose, and not loose like 'common GM-steering column loose', but instead it had a small portion broken/sheared. I'm guessing alot of stress was put on it over the years, pulling down on the wheel.

Anyway, today my replacement column finally came in. Direct replacement meaning tilt/cruise control/intermittent wiper just like the one I have now (to include key).

Prior to installing it, the wheel wouldn't lock (with key out). Figured the locking mechanism failed. Didn't bother me I mean if someone wants to steal a car they'll do it! Plus mine stays garaged. I digress.

So replacement column is now on, and yes I'm aware of the rod that the key moves up/down to turn the car on.

I drove the car around, worked perfectly well! Was taking care of my cooling fan issues at the same time. I go to turn off the car and the cylinder doesn't turn at all!

Shut the car off by manually moving the lever/switch under the steering column and proceed to work on the key/cylinder again.

Before you ask "is it in park", it's not my key I'm having an issue with, it's the cylinder itself not turning.

Anyone think it's possible that whatever rod/screw/bolt that engages the locking mechanism on the steering wheel could have possibly come off/out and gotten stuck on my cylinder? It's the only thing I can think of since the steering lock doesn't work. Plus turning car on/off was hassle-free every other time but I did have to move it alot up and down to finally bolt it in place and maybe that little piece jumped/dropped near the cylinder? I don't have a steering wheel puller but tomorrow I'm having someone come over with one to help me take it apart. Don't know what to expect.

 

Had to take apart the new-to-car steering column, took out the cylinder and of course it was frozen/stuck.

Had to take apart the old steering column for its cylinder but all is well.

If anyone wants pictures of the steering column completely broken down for assembly reasons let me know. I broke off the plastic ring/guard to see where it had broken at.

I also have misc. small parts that I stripped from the old column if someone needs something.

 

So what brand was the direct replacement I would like to know so I wouldn't order the same one. I hate that when new stuff doesn't work I thought that only happened to me LOL

 

The replacement I used on the newer column was the key+cylinder from my broken column. The cylinder that was stuck was a vats-key type, but really when I took it out the only difference were the two small wires coming from it as opposed to no wires from a non-vats key.

I know several auto stores carry replacements, and seeing as how GM uses the same cylinders/locks/etc. on alot of vehicles it won't be hard to get a direct replacement.

If it helps, I replaced one on my '94 LT1 Z28 (sold) with a new one from Napa auto parts. Direct replacement.

 

My ignition key in my '86 needs a little wiggling to get it to turn so I can get an ignition set from any year as a replacement? That's good to know, might save some $$$.