IF you can get it to turn, you should just replace the tumbler. You wont have to lower the entire column. Turn the key to "ACC" and on the bottom side of the housing, there is a hole about the size of a pen end. Stick something small in there, then pull back on the key.

If not, just call up your friendly local Nix99 and we'll just send you the whole assy!

 

and in the future, use isopropyl, methyl or ethyl alcohol carrier based graphite to lube the tumbler / cylinder internals, and lithium or moly grease on the moving parts outside the cylinder. stay away from mineral oil or petroleum based lubes like WD-40, Liquid Wrench, 3-in-1, etc., since they attract and accumulate dust- the last thing you want getting in where you stick your key.

 

My plan will be to just do the tumbler IF I can. Gonna work on it tomorrow if I have the day off.

Sent you a pm regarding the Assy.

 

Still can't get it to turn, this is driving me nuts. Sitting in the truck with a set of pliers, every couple of minutes having to straighten out my key. If I end up replacing the whole assembly, what does that include; key cylinder, ign. switch, upper bracket, spring, key interlock solenoid? I assume that doesn't require me getting it into the ON position to change out?

 

I was thinking about doing that to my truck, where would you get one and how much do they run?

 

it is the complete assy, as it unbolts off the steering column.

I will get you a price on Monday, as I don't have access to my inventory right now.

 

DC, No worries. I finally got the bugger out. Thanks for the help though.

 

Hey....first... I had the same problem... turned out my key was worn, dont make a new copy, cuz it wont be right either. Take ur vin # to a yota stealership, and proof that u own it, and they will cut u a brand new key, that worked for me, and cost $5, also... if that does not work... all u need to do is remove the tumblers, and stick a narrow flathead screwdriver in the hole, then turn, and the truck will start.

 

I have not yet had the fortunate task to turn my engine over but the tech I bought my pickup from said the key cylinder sometimes would bind. Can I just buy a new cylinder with keys or do I need to replace the tumblers too? I can replace the tumblers myself as I do at work, but I absolutely hate doing it as it's time consuming taking them out one by one and writing down the numbers and having to read the key each time I put a new one in. I usually charge more for labor to rekey a cylinder than to have a locksmith rekey them and I install.

 

It will start, but it won't turn