Hi Mas!
Based on my old stats course, there should be 120 combinations. Can
you help in narrowing it down?
Here's the skinny:
Remove the under-dash cover, and the bottom cover of the steering
column trim. Probably easier if you also remove two bolts holding the
column to the body and let it drop the 2-3 inches this gains.
Use a small phillips screwdriver to remove the electrical part of the
switch from the mechanical. You can then use a medium flat screwdriver
to work the switch and start the car. You _still_ won't have steering,
tho.
If you can somehow get the key to the "AUX" position, you can remove
the entire lock cylinder by inserting a large paperclip or the like
into a small hole at the top of the mechanical part of the lock
mechanism, and then simply pulling the lock cylinder out.
Final option is to totally remove the steering column. Remove the
pinch bolt from the steering "U" joint under the hood. Disconnect any
wiring connectors that go to the column, and any others that might be
in the way. They're all color-coded and of different configurations,
so putting things back won't be a problem. Pull the column towards the
driver's seat, and it should easily come free.
From here, you can either attempt to grind off the heads of the
tamper-proof bolts holding the ignition switch mechanicals to the
column, or probably easier, get another steering column from a salvage
yard and install it.
Tips:
Probably easier if you remove the steering wheel before you unbolt the
column. Remove the two or three phillips screws that hold the
horn/cover on, and remove it. Loosen the retaining nut a couple turns
and savagely work the wheel back and forth until it pops loose (that's
why you leave the nut on; otherwise you'll be wearing the steering
wheel when it comes free ;-). Or use a puller if you have one.
Try to figure a way to retain your steering wheel alignment. If
everything is pointed straight this isn't much of a problem, but if
not . . .
Everything is easier once the drivers seat is out of the way. 5 bolts,
hiding beneath some pesky plastic covers. Simply pry the covers off
and throw them at the cat or something.
If your car has air bags (did the early Legacys even have that option?
Seems like some might have.) be damn sure you disconnect the battery
before messing with the steering wheel. Probably a good idea anyway.
Hope this helps get Betsy goin' again; they cry at night when they're
not being driven . . .
ByeBye! S.
Steve Jernigan KG0MB
Laboratory Manager
Microelectronics Research
University of Colorado
(719) 262-3101