The key lock cylinder on the 1998 K1500 Chevy Silverado engages the ignition switch, which in turn sends power to the starter motor and starter solenoid. The key is designed to wear out before the key cylinder, but sometimes the key cylinder starts to wear out and the vehicle becomes harder to start because you cannot turn the ignition key. You can attempt to have a new key made at the dealership using he key code for your Silverado, but if that does not work, you need to replace the key lock cylinder with a new one.
Remove the screws that secure the upper and lower steering column shrouds together. Set the screws aside to be used later. Pull the shroud sections apart and locate the ignition key lock cylinder on the right side of the column.
Place the ignition key into the lock cylinder and turn it to the "auxiliary" position.
Locate the lock pin on the bottom of the ignition switch and push it into the switch, using your screwdriver.
Pull out on the cylinder lock half way.
Release the lock pin and turn the key to the "off' position.
Pull the old lock cylinder all the way out of the ignition switch.
Slide the new lock cylinder into the switch. As you push it in, it locks in place.
Place the upper and lower steering column shrouds on the steering column and secure them using the screws and screwdriver.
