E34 1990 525 ignition barrel removal(FIXED)

[Roger Baker]

Very simple question. How do I remove the ignition switch? I have removed the steering wheel, shrouds, indicator and wiper switches but cannot work out how to remove the ignition switch. The Haynes manual simply says to remove it but it won't pull out, there are no bolts to undo and no apertures I can see into which to insert something to depress clips. Anyone done this?

Roger

[Ronnie]

Have you inserted a couple of screwdrivers to depress the clips? then it should pull straight out

[Roger Baker]

Thanks for the reply. Possibly I have my terminology wrong it is the key barrel I am trying to remove. As far as I can see there are no holes or clips to insert screwdrivers or in any way extract the thing. Any ideas?

[Ronnie]

Is there a tiny hole just to the side of where you put the key in?
If so then you need to put a special tool down there,looks like this

http://www.samstagsales.com/bmw/bmw90886323110.jpg

[Roger Baker]

Thanks for the help. Yes I found the little hole and experimented on the new barrel. With the switch in the correct location pushing a thick piece of wire into it depresses a mortice sticking out the side of the barrel and lo and behold it can be withdrawn quite easily. Trick is to find the exact position where the hole should be. Easy with the lock out the holder actually damned difficult when you can't see what is happening! All is back together and we can use the car safe in the knowledge that the key will both enter and turn the lock. Interestingly BMW can supply a new lock which uses the original key but it costs twice as much, takes 2 weeks to obtain and you have to supply all sorts of security documentation. I bought a new lock and key which was available the next day and cost £26 down side is separarte keys for doors and ignition!!


Roger

[Ronnie]

Thanks for the help. Yes I found the little hole and experimented on the new barrel. With the switch in the correct location pushing a thick piece of wire into it depresses a mortice sticking out the side of the barrel and lo and behold it can be withdrawn quite easily. Trick is to find the exact position where the hole should be. Easy with the lock out the holder actually damned difficult when you can't see what is happening! All is back together and we can use the car safe in the knowledge that the key will both enter and turn the lock. Interestingly BMW can supply a new lock which uses the original key but it costs twice as much, takes 2 weeks to obtain and you have to supply all sorts of security documentation. I bought a new lock and key which was available the next day and cost £26 down side is separarte keys for doors and ignition!!


Roger

Glad you got it out, wasn't sure if it was the same as a e36 which I've done, the barrels are common for going wrong