ignition key won't back out

[Schmoe]

I tell you when it rains it pours. This is my '90 Cutlass that I decided to sell. Had it sold yesterday and the guy said he wanted to hear the engine, no problem. Cranked and then went to shut it off, the dang key wouldn't back out. Once you crank it, it will not back up at all, period. Had to pop the hood and smother the air intake to get it to die. Still couldn't get the key out. Anybody got any ideas on this? Is there any way I can bypass that mechanism so that I can get the key out? I had it sold....talk about embarrassment. Guy said to call him when it's fixed....yeah like he'll buy it now.
I did manage to get the key out yesterday. So this morning I sprayed it down with WD-40 thinking it was just needed some lube. Same thing happened again.

 

[kenw]

make sure it's not the steering lock that is jamming it in. When it is jammed, move the steering wheel back and forth (it is locked but will still move a bit).

 

[michaelc80]

Like the previous poster said, WD40 is not good for locking mechanisms. It'll attract every bit of dust and dirt. Get a lubricant that's especially for locks.

 

[Schmoe]

Well, got it tore apart and luckily, it was only the tumbler. New one cost 15 bucks and took me about an hour to fix. Appreciate the insight. Now, if I can just get it sold.

 

[T-Keith]

Sounds like it doesn't want to be sold.

Good luck,
-T

 

[michael harris]

Also, wd-40 is not good for locks as it will gum up over time terribly. sounds like the steering lock as mentioned above or you could have a tumbler hanging up or the cylinder is possibly just not smooth. try cleaning the whole inside of the cylinder w/ brake cleaner well. then once it dries out get some dry graphite and pump it in there. work the key in and out repeatedly and if you have a different key you can try it also.. if you have the front tired against something and then shut if off it can kinda preload the steering lock makin it a bear to get it to un-latch etc.. hope it helps..
44H

 

[Schmoe]

DON'T JINX ME!!!!!!