91 318I ignition tumbler

[demelloe]

I'm having an issue getting the ignition tumbler to release from the cylinder, I have tried the 60 degree turn of the key then pressing with the 3/64th wire but it still won't release!!!!!!

Any better method or easier method


Thanks:

[Manolito]

Join the club. Many have tried. Few have succeeded.

I bought a new lock and housing and practiced on it. The new one comes right apart, just like the book says it will.

Even after practicing on the new one, I could not get my old one apart, and neither could the mechanic at the BMW dealer, after I had removed the housing from the car.

If you cannot get it out, you are out another $150 for the housing.

The lock housing is not bad to get off if you have a dremel tool with an abrasive disk to cut slots in the tops of the two breakoff bolts on top of the housing. Then use a straight blade screwdriver bit and a small ratcheting box end wrench that fits the screwdriver bit. If you have a slender 1/4" drive ratchet and a really short screwdriver bit, you MIGHT get it in there, but I doubt it.

When you pull off the steering wheel, take note of the orientation of the two spacer rings. If you put them back wrong, the steering wheel will rub. Pack that top bearing with grease while you have it out. Also search this forum for my post on how to re-install the snap ring on the steering shaft. I found a very easy way to do it with a short piece of PVC pipe.