Help removing ignition switch without the key

[GSP9]

I bought a nice used dash recently and the ignition switch was still in the dash. I need to get the thing out so i can strip the dash and paint it. I know how to remove the ignition switch when you have the key but any tricks to removing it when you don't have the key? Thanks.

 

[hyghlndr]

Take it to someone with 9 thousand old Bronco keys and hope to get lucky or do it the way I have had to by drilling it out. Drilling it is a HUGE mess, start with small bits, work larger and basically destroy everything....it is a pain.

 

[luke]

Yep. Drilling it is about it. I couldn't find my keys during the resto and had to drill it to paint the dash. Bought a new keyset and put it in after paint. Then a couple years later I was cleaning up after the restoration and came across the original keys. Annoying to say the least.

 

[GSP9]

Thanks guys. I almost started drilling it last night but thought I would ask on here first if there was another way to go about it.

 

[thegreatjustino]

http://classicbroncos.com/tech/early-bronco-ignition-switch-removal

 

[Fallingcedar]

The old Ford lock is not that hard to pick with a rake and a tension bar. A good locksmith will make quick work of it. Might call and ask what he charges if you bring it to him and he doesn't have to do a field service call.

 

[stout22]

If you have the dash out of the Bronco you can go thru the pain of drilling it or carry the dash to a locksmith and have them remove it. My experience is the locksmith is easier and cleaner