how do you get that stupid snap ring off on that metal plate underneath the steering wheel, I am trying to get to get to the lock cylinder

Use two small screwdrivers, one to hold the ring from turning and the other to pry the end up and out, then work the drivers around until it's completely out of the groove:



JazzMan

shame shame.
you should have watched my videos.

There is a tool called a lock ring depressor that will make the task of removing the retainer much easier. The tool is threaded on to the steering shaet and ten used to drpress the lock ring then you can remove the retainer .

quote Originally posted by silverbullet910: There is a tool called a lock ring depressor that will make the task of removing the retainer much easier. The tool is threaded on to the steering shaet and ten used to drpress the lock ring then you can remove the retainer .

What he said... There is stored energy in that lock plate so it's safer to use the compressor.

quote Originally posted by silverbullet910: There is a tool called a lock ring depressor that will make the task of removing the retainer much easier. The tool is threaded on to the steering shaet and ten used to drpress the lock ring then you can remove the retainer .

I will try the screwdrivers for a few more minutes, where do you get this tool?

Any parts store would have one. Costs about $10, called a lock ring depressor.

Autozone has the best one:



They will probably rent or loan one to you, though at only $10 +/- they're cheap to own.

You cannot remove the lockplate without that tool without running a very high risk of permanently damaging your column.

JazzMan