I am trying to repair my steering column thanks to an attempted theft of my car. What they did was smash out the site of the column, remove the ignition gear and manually slid the plunger to activate the ignition switch.

I have the gear back in place but there is another plunger above the gear that is held on by a spring. It pushes forward when turning the key. I cannot get the spring on in order for this second plunger to work. Does anyone know what it does? can I run without it?

 

That pin engages the lock plate when you turn the key to the
"OFF" position.You do not need it to operate the car, but your
car is more easily stolen if it can be steered. Do a search on MSN
for turn+signal+switch. #37 illustrated tilt steering column disassembly.

 

thanks!