98 silverado ignition

[icehole10]

Hey guys hoping one of you can give me a little advice. I have noticed for a while that when starting my pickup the key would sometimes be alittle sticky from the lock position to the run positioon. At first I would try to turn the wheel a little each way and turn the key and evetually it would turn from the lock position. Well as time goes on it is getting worse. Tonight it took me a good minute to get it to turn after work. Just wondering if any of you can tell me if the steering wheel has to come off to replace the tumbler assembly. Any help is appreciated.

[Jeremy airjer W]

The ignition lock cylinder is pretty easy and is likely the problem. All you have to do is remove the lower trim cover on the steering column. You'll see a hole in the end of the area that houses the cylinder. inserts a small screwdriver into the hole and push up while rotating the the key. You'll feel it move up (usually when the key is in the run posistion). As soon as it moves up pull on the cylinder, it should slide out.

Sometimes there is a hole in the lower column cover that you can insert the screw driver through so you don't have to remove the cover.

[Scott K]

If you replace the key and tumbler you may need to do the auto learn for the theft system before the truck starts.

[Jeremy airjer W]

I forgot about that!

I would recommend also to get the part from the dealer. They will be able to code the new one to the original key so you won't have to have a key for the door and a key to start. Another thing to try is the spare key which is usually in pristine condition just to make sure a worn out key is not the problem.

[icehole10]

Thanks for the help guys. I went to the dealership and had them cut me a new key and its good as new. I'm gald I didn't start ripping things apart. Thanks again

[Jeremy airjer W]

Thats good news! Its nice to be able to fix something for a couple $ every once and a while isn't it.

[fishinJohn]

There should be a counter on the top of the auto forum of how much money airjer and crew have saved people. A big THANKS to all those who come here to help!