Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1954 chevrolet 210 ignition switch lock cylinder, gm cars, lock cylinder

Question
Hello, my recently purchased 1954 chevrolet 210 has no key in ignition switch,the cylinder is there but it not in the locked position so I am able to start and stop it.I purchased a new ignition lock cylinder with keys, but am unable to figure out how to remove old cylinder and then how to install the new one. Of course the new cylinder came with no instructions, so I am stumped. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!  

Answer
Unfortunately, you need the key to get the lock cylinder out.  I think your best bet is to take the whole ignition lock out of the dash (or the door lock if that's easier for you) and take it to a locksmith - he can make a key which will fit the lock (the door and ignition keys are identical in GM cars) and then you can just use the car that way, or if you want, drive it to the locksmith and get him to replace the lock cylinder.

There is a trick to getting the lock cylinders out - you have to have the key to allow the lock cylinder to turn counterclockwise past the "Lock" position while you depress a tiny spring catch through the pinhole in the face of the cylinder - then the cylinder will come out.  Once you get a key made for the old locks, you might be able to do this yourself, but it is a bit tricky to do - that's why I recommend an experienced locksmith.

That feature (being able to run the car without a key) was a Chevrolet feature for many years, by the way - it is not a failure of your lock).

Dick