Toyota Repair: 1995 Toyota ignition switch replacement, hook tool, release pin


Question
Hi,
I've got a 1995 Camry that I think I need to replace the ignition switch cylinder on.  All of a sudden we can't turn the key past the ACC position.  I'm hoping the cylinder has gone bad and just needs replacing.  I've done a ton of searching on the subject.  

So far I've removed the bottom section of the dash board.  I've taken off the covers around the steering wheel.  As I understand it now I should be able to push in the release pin and pull the cylinder out.  However, for the life of me I can't find the release pin.  Can you please tell me what I should be looking for?   I spent about 30 minutes looking for it and gave up.  I live in NY and it's darn cold out here right now and I'm trying to work by flashlight so that makes it tougher :-)

But if you could please tell me what the release pin should look like I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks,
Bill

Answer
If you already have the new lock cylinder take a look at it holding it in the same position as the installed lock and you will see the release pin, this will help you locate it on the lock housing, it is in kind of a tight place on the housing at about 90 degrees to the left from the top about two inches inward, there is a small metal bracket right in front of the opening, with a small hook tool you can get in to the opening to push the pin in to release the lock.