Ignition Key Stuck

[gashouse]

I have a problem with my 1991 Q45. Having just replaced thefuel pump(having solved most problems on my own untilconsulting archives on this list after trying a used pump as areplacement-don't do it), I'm trying to solve another problem withthe car while in the process of putting it all back together. Theignition key stays stuck in the ignition switch. The button thatis pushed to enable the key to be turned to the release positioncan't be pushed. I removed the covering of the steering columnand the best way I can describe the problem is that there is alever that is electronically activated to block the button when thekey is turned to the acc positions or to try and start the car, butfor some reason, it isn't releasing when the car is turned off. I was wondering if it has something to do with the shift lock or ifanyone knew any other reason why this would happen. Any help is appreciated.

[DAEDALUS]

Have you played with both the steering wheel and the shifter?

[gashouse]

Yeah. I've tried to wiggle the steering wheel and the shifter and none of it helps. I've looked at the lever that's blocking thebutton and it has a spring on it, but it's not being pulled back for some reason. I can pull it back by hand and push the button toremove the key, but it won't release on it's own.

[Qdemption]

How old is your key? Mine is really old and whenever that happens to me (it does) I just yank it out of there. It sure doesn't feel right, but it gets the job done.

[gashouse]

There are two keys, both of which I believe are originals. Theproblem is that I can't get the key to turn all the way back tothe place where it's supposed to pull out. (i.e. it won't rotatecounterclockwise all the way to the off position).

[Qdemption]

Yeah that has happened to me, but after a while it always turns back. I don't know. Maybe try and loosen up the lock with some spray or something, play with it real loose like, and then see what happens.

[VimyJ]

I've read posts saying that our titanium keys are hard on the tumblers.

[wlong]

I've had a similar problem with my car. I ususlly end up pushing it up into park and the key will rotate. I don't know if this is an electrical connection (my guess) or some mechanical linkage with the steering column.

Will96 Q45

[psychic_mechanic]

Start with the simple solution...do you have the battery hooked up? Does it have a charge?

You can't remove the key unless the car has power, and your post says you are in the process of putting the car back together.

It would not be the tumblers, it would be that electric solenoid next to the ignition switch.

[gashouse]

Yes, the battery was hooked up and had a charge. I'm not surewhat exactly was causing the problem, but I think I have it fixednow. Either the solenoid wasn't releasing or the spring on thelever wasn't able to pull it back. Looking at the setup of theignition switch, the only purpose of that lever was to keep youfrom pushing the button when the key was turned to an on oracc position, and I don't intend to do that. So I just took thelever out, remounted the solenoid and went on my merry way. Istill would like to know what exactly was causing the problem inthe first place though. Anyway, thanks to everyone for all the suggestions.