Steering Column Repair: locked steering wheel, ford explorer sport, steering wheel

Question
I have a 97 Ford Explorer Sport that has a locked steering wheel. It was parked with the wheels turned all the way to the left and when I tried to start it, the steering wheel locked and now won't budge. We have tried everything we've seen on the web except removing the locking pin under the steering wheel. Is that our next step? If so how do we do this? Do you have any pics?

Answer
Hi Janice:

I'm not sure if the key is jammed and won't turn, if the steering wheel is jammed and won't move or both.  Can you lease clarify it for me?
My guess is probably both.  The only solution for this to actually force the steering wheel even further in the direction is is jammed while turning the key.  It will take A LOT OF FORCE on both the wheel and key (simultaneously) to release these mechanisms, but it can be done.  I have never had to remove any pins or lock to remedy this; just patience and strength.

Good luck
Doug