1978 Chevy and GM Ignition Lock Removal

The video shows how to remove an aftermarket steering wheel and a frozen Ignition Lock Cylinder in a 1978 GMC K15.

[@marlsomers6102]

Hey, Man, thanks a lot for posting this. I had reviewed quite a number of other youtube videos and websites for getting the ignition out of my 78 Sierra Classic 3/4T truck. All showed the ignition pulling out easy after removing the single retaining screw. Mine sure wasn't coming out easy. Thinking it was just stuck from the grease, grim and grunge accumulated over the years, I tried to leverage it out with a screwdriver and broke the two-tab piece surrounding the ignition on the key end. Looked again and thankfully found your video. Broke an old hacksaw blade in half and fashioned it using some tin snips (had to trim off some width). Put it into the slot, pushed and tapped on the end of the hacksaw blade/tool with a hammer (okay, I was lazy and used the edge of the socket wrench I had handy). At the same time I pulled out on the key that I had in the ignition in the "on" position. After goofing with it for about 15 minutes, it came out. Sweet.

[@bruteforce76]

Yea this is one repair that can test anyone's patience.

[@sherryhinson7964]

All I can say is you are awesome . My husband thanks you sooo much.

[@bruteforce76]

Thanks

[@Gusgetsgoodtime]

Right on Bro! That was a huge help.

[@MrConformation]

Well done vid... There should have been a recall on the GM's keyways, Like the saddle tanks class action.

[@jordanlopez4766]

Mine won't click back to the lock position it looks like the gears inside are stuck. Do you anything about that

[@321CatboxWA]

THANKS MY TAB WONT DEPRESS!! ILL KEEP YOU POSTED.

[@bruteforce76]

Sorry for the late reply. How did it turn out if you don't mind my asking?

[@MrConformation]

My 1 ton Chevy ignition was so messed up, everything fell out. The steering box area of the frame had a visible cracked. (another recall that should have been). We parted out the rig.

[@bruteforce76]

Yea I remember reading a long time ago about the frame where the steering gear is, cracking over time due to flexing from what I recall. I put a steel push bar on mine.My push bar is mounted to the frame rails so it adds the support needed to stop that flexing. I think another option was/is a plate that you could mount on the other side of the frame rail where the gear mounts.But I like the the push bar better. Sorry to hear you had to part out your Bowtie.