Tools Needed:
- Drill with a 1/8 inch bit
- Small flat-head screwdriver
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Hammer and punch
Instructions:
1. Disconnect Car Battery:
- Start by disconnecting the negative terminal of your car's battery. This is a safety measure to prevent any accidental electrical discharge during the process.
2. Gain Ignition Switch Access:
- Access the ignition lock switch by removing the lower part of the steering column cover. Some models may have screws holding the cover, while others may snap in place.
3. Remove Ignition Switch:
- Locate the two security bolts that hold the ignition switch in place. Unscrew these bolts using a Phillips-head screwdriver.
- Once the bolts are removed, use a small flat-head screwdriver to pry out the ignition switch from its housing. Be gentle to avoid breaking any components.
4. Remove Steering Wheel Lock Assembly:
- Insert the 1/8-inch drill bit into the drill and start drilling out the rivets that attach the lock cylinder assembly to the steering column.
- Drill slowly and carefully, ensuring that you don't damage the steering column. Repeat the process for all the rivets.
5. Remove Steering Lock Housing:
- After removing all the rivets, the lock cylinder housing should be loosened. Carefully remove the housing by gently prying it off the steering column.
6. Disconnect Wiring:
- Once the housing is removed, disconnect the wiring connected to the lock cylinder assembly. Take note of the wiring placement to ensure proper reconnection later.
7. Remove Lock Cylinder:
- With the wiring disconnected, you should now have full access to the lock cylinder. Remove the lock cylinder by turning the key while pulling the cylinder out.
8. Install New Lock Cylinder:
- Take your new lock cylinder and insert it into the lock cylinder housing. Make sure it turns smoothly with the ignition key.
9. Reconnect Wiring:
- Reconnect the wiring you disconnected earlier, referencing your notes on the proper placement.
10. Reattach Steering Lock Housing:
- Carefully align the steering lock housing back onto the steering column and tap it gently with a hammer and punch until it is securely seated.
11. Reinstall Ignition Switch:
- Reinsert the ignition switch into its housing and secure it using the two security bolts you removed earlier. Tighten the bolts using a screwdriver.
12. Replace Steering Column Covers:
- Reattach the lower steering column cover by snapping it back into place or tightening any screws that may have been removed.
13. Reconnect Car Battery:
- Reconnect the negative terminal to the car battery.
14. Test the Lock Cylinder:
- Test the functionality of the new lock cylinder by turning the ignition key and ensuring it works smoothly.
By following these steps, you should successfully replace the key lock cylinder in your 1993 Geo Metro LSI, even though the assembly is riveted to the steering column.
