Stuck key solution - replace ignition cylinder & door locks?

[jjbuzzman]

My '90 Q has the classic worn out key cylinder syndrome - the key goes halfway in and you have to work with it awhile to get all the way in. A search in the forum reveals several solutions that have worked for others - I 've done the graphite with little improvement.

Thus, I am left with (1) get a locksmith to rebuild the cylinder (2) order a factory key and see if it helps, or (3) get a key copy and see if it works any better. One additional option that makes sense to me would be to get a used, low-mileage replacement cylinder with keys and replace the whole thing. This would leave me with two keys to use - one to start the car and one to lock the doors. But then, were I to exchange both front door locks from the same donor, might I have a solution that would work with one key?

If anybody has done this, comments on technical challenge? Any problems with the security systems of the car when swapping out ignition and front door lock cylinders?

Thanks, Jim in North Carolina ('90, '91 and '93)

[maxnix]

Think Q45tech just replaced all locksets. The ignition is the one with most wear, especially if bowling balls are on the key ring.

Of course, without the later remote, the driver's door gets worn also.

[Q451990]

No real problem swapping the lockest out with the security system. The ignition has "shear head" screws - essentially soft heads that break off so that it's harder for a thief to remove the switch. It's easy enough to drill out though. You could use cap-head allen screws for replacements.

The door locks are a bit of a pain, but there's a TSB that I can post if you get to that point that will make it easier.

I hear of fewer lockset failures on the later years, so it may be useful to get them off of a newer donor vehicle. One thing I have noticed is that the junk yards are notorious for misplacing all but one key - so finding a part-out here on NICO would be your best bet.

Heath

[jjbuzzman]

Thanks for the pointers on the lock replacement project. A NICO member is parting out a '92 with 10,000 miles so maybe these locks have little wear, and he has keys. So I may give it a try. 'Have to do something! I've resorted to just leaving my key in the ignition for fear of taking it out and not being able to get it back in. And it's been that way for nearly a year. 'Good thing I live in a low crime area!

When i get the parts I'll send you a note on the additional information you mentioned.

Thanks, Jim in North Carolina

[Q45tech]

Who would steal an old Q? Pull fuel pump fuse or add a secret switch.

[mxr662]

I've treated mine several times with a bit of liquid graphite and it seems to be getting better over time. Probably will need replacement soon. One of the two regular keys works much better than the other. The two valet keys don't work well.

[Denver90Q]

My !990 works well enough with the new key I got that for it that I'm thinking of selling the almost new lockset I have.