YARDofSTUF

I need my key number off the cyl, hwo do I get to it? I was looking at the steering wheel and I dont see a bolt or anything on the colum.


Thanks.

TraceZ

Explain your problem better, you may not need to take anything apart to get the information you need.

But, here are instructions to remove the ignition cylinder. It requires a steering wheel puller and a lock plate compressor. Also, there are specific instructions on recentering the airbag coil before reinstalling it.

remove negative battery cable
remove airbag fuse
remove airbag
remove steering wheel
remove airbag coil
remove lock plate
remove turn signal switch
remove key buzzer contacts
remove ignition cylinder

YARDofSTUF

I've tried the VIn # and no one around can make the key so i need the # off the cylinder.


I have an 89 firebird and no airbag. Battery is out of the vehicle, Lock plate compressor? How do I remove the steering wheel?

TraceZ

To remove the steering wheel you must first remove the horn button, then the nut on the end of the shaft. Next use a steering wheel puller to pull the wheel off the shaft.

After you ahve the wheel pulled, you will see the lock plate. It is a metal wheel with a slotted/grooved outside edge. When the column is locked a metal dowel goes into one of the slots to prevent it from turning.

A lock plate compressor will compress the lock plate into the column allowing you to remove the c-clip holding it in place. Once the c-clip is gone the lock plate will slide off the steering shaft allowing you to get to the turn signal switch.

YARDofSTUF

Oh My Freaking God thats maddness!!!

Dealership told me I just had to turn a bolt LOL


Thanks dude.

YARDofSTUF

If I have a good battery, will turning the key to the first "thing" so that the radio only comes on prove that whatever key is made works? Or do I need to be able to try and start it?

TraceZ

You have to try to start it. If the new key has the incorrect VATS value it will turn on the ignition, but it won't start the engine.

YARDofSTUF

so then with my car having a possible bad alternator and 3 year old gas with no preservation methods in place, calling a guy out to make my key wont really do anything for me unless i'm 100% right on what i think is the VATS value?

TraceZ

Get out your meter and check the resistance yourself. Then you should be ok.

YARDofSTUF

I have no "meter"

So a locksmith would not be able to get the correct VATS resistance off his device in this situation?


VATS has to be one of the worst inventions ever.

TraceZ

The locksmith *should* be able to get it right. I never trust anyone, so I wouldnt feel good about it unless I double checked it myself.

VATS is actually a very effective anti theft system.

YARDofSTUF

O i'm sure its effective! lol Just been a pain in my ***!



Thanks for the help, i'm gonna trust the locksmith this time out.