22 replies to this topic

[the52stays]

Hi all,

I'm having fun (loosely termed...) with my Escort van.

Yesterday for the first time it wouldn't start very easily on the key, after around half an hour of trying time and again, gently, forcefully, all kinds of trying, she eventually got there...

The issue was that the key wasn't engaging with anything so I am assuming my barrel needs replacing?

So, today, same problem, except this time there really is no joy, no lucky sweet-spot, no ignition, nothing...off comes the column housing!

I've managed to remove the ignition switch and with two keys (one in ignition, one in the switch itself) I can get the engine to turn over and all seems fine...

However...

I still can't release the steering lock! So, what to do now?

I realise I'll need a new ignition barrel/keys, but if I can get the steering lock to disengage then at least I can drive to a mechanic to have the work done, otherwise im stick needing a flatbed to trailer me away...

Any help or advice would be much appreciated!

Thanks for listening,
Richey

[the52stays]

I'd like to point out that I am the legal keeper of the van, not some dodgy chav looking for theft tips!

[martyntdci]

snap it.....

[martyntdci]

if you was a theif you snap it anyway lmao

[the52stays]

Is that not a bit drastic?

How would I go about doing that without ruining the van?!

Richey

[stef123]

given that the steering lock is there for a security purpose, i would think the only way to remove it while its locked is to snap it anyway?

[martyntdci]

not really stef, but for obv reasons not going get anymore info lol....

[the52stays]

Ok, that's helpful...

So there is a way to do this? Do I just need to prove to somebody that im genuine for at least a hunt of how it could be done?!

Happy to provide photos of b4 if necessary...to the right helpful person!

Any help moderators?

RicheyRichey

[martyntdci]

pics, req of vehicle. pic of log book etc..... then maybe

[martyntdci]

there are ways around everything my friend ;-)

[stef123]

not really stef, but for obv reasons not going get anymore info lol....

yes true, and to be honest if this thread was to gain much more info on disabling the steering lock it would be removed anyway.

To the OP,
unfortunately this forum will not give out any information on removing such a security device through the public forum or private messages for obvious reasons

[jeebowhite]

Agreed, I would advise you call a recovery vehicle and have your log book and driving license with picture, then you should be able to get the help or services you require.

[the52stays]

Can anyone give me an idea as to the cost I'm likely to endure to replace the ignition barrel by a mechanic?

I'm assuming that the work I need to rectify the steering lock issue is something most mechanics will be knowledgeable of?

Will it be a hugely expensive labour charge?

[jeebowhite]

Depends, to replace the barrell itself, your probably looking at about £150 with labour I expect (at a guess), as for the steering lock, probably a couple of hundred?

Cant really say for definite though, you should ring around and get quotes before committing though...

[martyntdci]

Can anyone give me an idea as to the cost I'm likely to endure to replace the ignition barrel by a mechanic?

if you have a barrel and a little patience approx 30-45 mins all in. if coloum etc is stripped about 10-15mins no need got to a spanner