Need some help

[wiseguy]

My dad has a 2002 PT that the key will not turn and the auto selector will not move. I bought a haynes manual and try to do a couple of diferrent things.
here is what I have tried:
Key in trying to turn, moved the tilt up and down, turned the wheel (side note it didn't lock untill the wheels were turn about 10°)
Tried to remove the in park lockout cable (sorry for the bad verbage)

can someone suggest what to do from here, otherwise its off to the mechanic+tow truck=Mucho$$$$$$ which they don't have to spend.

Give it to me straight I can handle it (Industrial Mechanic and been working on cars for about 27 years) so I might be able to fix it with a little help.

Thanks
Chris

[CREWZIN]

Chris,

Only thing I can suggest is to keep turning the wheel away from the locked position as you try and turn the key towards the start. Go back and forth with the steering wheel as far as it will turn and possibly hit a position where the key will turn.

[wiseguy]

Thanks Crewzin

we have tried that for quite some time with 0 results.
let me ask you, since its not my car what is the sequence: key has to be in the run position for the selector to come out of park?

Thanks again for any help

[CREWZIN]

The key has to be in the run position AND the brake peddle has to be in/down for the selector to come out of park.

[Cartman]

Sounds like the ignition cylinder might have a stuck tumbler or broken spring inside. also, are you sure that you are using the right key?

[wiseguy]

Yeah definitely the right key, and have tried both sets.
Is there any way to remove the cylinder lock without the key being in the run position, I realize that the answer is more than likely no.
I think they are going to wind up taking it to the dealer as much as I hate to see them do so. I just don't have the time to spend fiddling with it.

If you guys think of anything else let me know.

thanks for all the help

Chris

[CREWZIN]

Chris, Not good news:

From the Haynes Manual...

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

2. Insert the ignition key and turn the switch to the RUN position.

3. Insert a small screwdriver through the access hole in the lower steering column cover and depress the retaining tab, then withdraw the lock cylinder from the housing.

[wiseguy]

Yeah

Got that, not sure what to do if you can't get it into run

thanks
chris

[bobs turbo pt]

keep us posted on what happens good luck

[quicksilverdon]

Tried calling a locksmith?