Cadillac Repair: how can i remove the ignition lock, pain in the butt, dent puller

Question
I am in the process of buying a 1974 cadillac coupedeville but the ignition key is missing I was wonder on the procedure to remove the ignition or possibly drill it out for now and deal with it at home

Answer
Hi,

Yes, it can be drilled out, but if you haven't done this before, I highly recommend someone that does it all the time.
Its not often I recommend a locksmith, but the cost should not be too bad to use an automotive locksmith. Can save you lots of grief.
With the locksmith, you have options.
He can impression a key. These locks are relatively simple for that. A key blank is blued and inserted, jiggled around, removed and filed. This operation is done for all 6 cuts on the key.
Now you have a working key and can have a dup made as well.
You have not ruined the lock, had to disassemble the column etc.

This is just the easiest and cheapest route.
Drilling the ignition lock out is a pain in the butt and if you have not done this before and are right on center, you stand the chance of wrecking the steering column.

These locks can be forced out with a dent puller, but again, you may be doing more damage than you need to.

The locksmith route you should be very happy with and most will come to the car too!

Good Luck,

Rob