If you are talking about installing or removing the ignition lock cylinder I believe the key has to be in the run position.
I don't know about the blue and gray plastic things, but the ignition lock cylinder must have the key in the on (run) position in order to get it to release in order to remove it, and the same on (run) position to install the lock cylinder.
I'm wondering if a locksmith is capable of getting your ignition lock cylinder to rotate to the on/run position so the ignition lock cylinder release can be depressed to remove it ? I'm also wonderering what they would charge for that service, because I was charged $30.00 and taxes to open my door lock on my house.
I'm wondering if a locksmith is capable of rotating the ignition lock cylinder to the on/run position so the release can be depressed to remove the ignition lock cylinder, or if a locksmith can make an ignition key for the existing cylinder ? I'm also wondering what it would cost. I was charged $30.00 and taxes to come to my house and unlock my doorknob lock this year. Something to check out.
Ignition switch lock cylinder
The tumblers in the key cylinder have most likely become stuck in the wrong position and you will have to replace the ignition key cylinder.
Remove the retaining ring from the top of your 1997 Chevrolet 1500 ignition cylinder. Slide the ignition cylinder out and remove the wiring harness.
I'm wondering if a locksmith would be capable of rotating your ignition lock cylinder to the on/run position so that the release can be depressed to remove the lock cylinder, or if a locksmith can make a key for the existing ignition lock cylinder ? This year I paid $30.00 and taxes for a locksmith to open my doorknob lock on my house, but I don't know what they would charge for something like that. Worth checking out.
When engine is off , insert the ignition key and turn it towards you for the accessory position
To replace Ignition Switch, first you have to remove the old one. To do this you disconnect battery ground cable. Remove the upper steering column shroud by removing the five self-tapping screws. Remove tilt steering column lock lever, Remove lower steering column shroud, disconnect the ignition switch electrical connector, turn ignition switch lock cylinder to the "run" position, remove the two screws retaining ignition switch, and finally unhook the ignition switch from the actuator. Now to install the new one.Make sure that the ignition switch lock cylinder is in the "run" position. You can test for the "run" position by rotating the ignition switch lock cylinder approximately 90 degrees from the "lock" position. Hook up the ignition switch into the actuator. You might have to move the ignition switch slightly back and forth to align the ignition switch mounting holes with the lock cylinder housing threaded holes. Install retaining screws. Connect electrical connector to ignition switch. Connect battery ground cable. Check ignition switch for proper operation, including start and accessory positions. Also, make certain that the column is in the "locked" position. Then Install upper steering column shroud. Install the lower steering column shroud and tilt steering column lock lever.
If the ignition key remains in the first on position the steering wheel may be stuck. Another reason can include the lock cylinder is malfunctioning.
Disconnect the battery and wait at least 2 minutes. Place the key in the RUN position and through the hole in the lower shroud press the lock cylinder retaining tab and remove the key cylinder. Then remove the steering column shrouds, remove the electrical connectors and the ignition mounting screw.
the steering wheel will lock and the key will come out, unless of course the ignition cylinder is broken