Chrysler Repair: Chrysler Van LXI, mobile locksmith, lock cylinder

Question
Key will not turn in the ignition, obviously cant get van running...

Answer
Hi George,
This sort of problem seems to be more prevalent than I would expect. Lets assume that the key has not worn to such an extent that it won't mesh with the tumblers in the lock cylinder, but if you have another ignition key you might try using that. Other than that mismatch, the other possibility appears to me to be the safety interlock between the lock cylinder and the gear shift lever that prevents the removal of the key if the trans is not in the Park position. I would suggest that you try moving the gear shift lever to different positions as available while you try to rotate the key to the run and start positions. That may free up the interlock bindup that may be preventing you from rotating the key. The last choice is obviously a mobile locksmith who may have experience with this kind of difficulty.
Please let me know how you resolve this problem so I can share it with other van owners.
Roland