Key --- swap new key into existing key head
 

Looking for some advice from anyone who has gone thru this before.

I need to swap the new key (top key w/o head/handle) into the existing old key. Based on the pix I posted below, would it be possible to do this swap without damaging the existing keyhead?

Any ideas?

Here's the deal. My ignition busted --- the whole shabang. So I had to install a new ignition assembly --- mechanical + electrical portions. The replacement/instal went fine. Well, now I'm stuck with a new key that has only a tiny key head. NOTE, for the new key, the key separates from the key head with some force --- but you can tell that it is designed to separate.

The issue with the small keyhead --- see pix below --- is that it makes turning the ignition very difficult to do. I literally have to open the driver side door, then use both hands and crank the key to turn the ignition.

In fact, after driving away from my indie shop (who did the ignition install) --- I went for a coffee and then tried to start the car again and couldn't. I thought the car was kaput again. Had it towed the indie again and they told me I have to really crank it.

Thanks in advance!
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1389482169.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1389482304.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1389482315.jpg

Well, looking at the part #944-538-041-00-M100 it looks like the key is supposed to come out. But, I tried using a pair of pliers and an old T-shirt to prevent scratching. No luck.

Any suggestions? Or, bite the bullet and pay $40 for a new key head?

Thanks!

Pull the spring loaded pin back and the key will pull out. Hard to get the key out of the small head without messing it up.
warren

It is designed to pull off and the new one inserted back in. Pretty easy.
On your picture where the head is disassembled, see that little spring at the top of the head? That spring pushes on a mechanism that protrudes into the notch on the little key and keeps it from falling out. Push that tab up, wiggle the key out (it will be stiff) and insert the new blade back in.

Thanks for the advice guys! Much appreciated. I did see the spring and pointed a flashlight into it to see what was going on in there.

So, do I remove the spring? Or just pull it back away from the key?