Column replacement/Transponder

[Markincali]

Hello, I'm hoping I could get some advice regarding replacing my column.

2003 PT Cruiser wouldn't start, physical diagnostic indicates that the "pin" that goes from what I assume is the lock cylinder to the ignition switch is broken (see pics). Mechanic told me I had to replace the entire column

Bought a used column, had it shipped overnight...uh oh, this replacement column has an immobilizer/transponder key while my original does not.

My original column does not have the immobilizer box attached to the ignition, nor does it need the rubber headed key to start.

My question, is the replacement column/ignition going to work even though my PT did not come with this security feature? Is it possible to skip or not plug in the immobilizer box and still have a functioning ignition?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
http://i45.tinypic.com/24xphdi.jpg
http://i48.tinypic.com/rvy14o.jpg

[quicksilverdon]

Welcome.
Seems to me you have 2 choices:
1) take part you need off used column and put it on yours.
2) Move your lock cylinder to used column and don't hook up anything you didn't have before.

either should work. If you don't hook up module, it's as if it weren't there.

[the_godfather]

For the past hour I've been searching for someone with this VERY SAME PROBLEM as me. That piece you have taken a picture of is the same thing that happened to my '01. I thought it was the ignition switch and when I removed it I discovered that! That part is designed to fail. It's made of magnesium so you can't have a new piece welded to it otherwise it's probably explode. I just bought a used column as well because YOU CANNOT BUY THIS PART ANYWHERE except the dealer. A new column I was quoted as $335 here in Texas and about $300 to install it at the dealer. Now back to why I am posting this in the first place. There should be two screws at the bottom of the column the hold the shifter lock in place. If you remove that you can pull that assembly out and do the same on your replacement. Then put everything back together and you should be in business. Mine is supposed to be here on Monday so I'm going to try to do the same thing. I don't see why it'd be different. If you've already had this done can you please describe the outcome? Thank you.