Im trying to take the ignition out, and one of the first steps is to turn the ignition to the 'on' position. This is a catch 22, because that is the reason im replacing it- it wont turn on. Ive tried pushing the pin thing in and pulling, but it wont budge. Anyone have any ideas?

 

This is from the 1996 Ford manual but should be the same/similar.

Lock Cylinder Non-Functional

Removal

NOTE: The following procedure applies to vehicles in which the ignition lock is inoperative and the ignition switch lock cylinder (11582) cannot be rotated due to a lost or broken key, unknown key number, or a cap that has been damaged or broken to the extent that the ignition switch lock cylinder cannot be rotated.



Disconnect battery ground cable.

Using channel lock or vise grip pliers, twist cap until it separates from the ignition switch lock cylinder.

Remove lower shroud as outlined in this section under shroud removal.

*****-punch pin and drill out with 1/8-inch bit. Do not drill deeper than 13mm (1/2 inch). Put a piece of masking tape 13mm (1/2 inch) from tip on bit. Take care not to damage housing.

Using a 3/8-inch diameter drill, drill down middle of ignition lock key slot approximately 44mm (1-3/4 inch) until ignition switch lock cylinder breaks loose from breakaway base of ignition switch lock cylinder. Remove ignition switch lock cylinder and drill shavings from lock cylinder housing.

Remove column lock gear retainer, steering column lock housing bearing (3E700) and steering column lock gear (3E717). Thoroughly clean all drill shavings and other foreign materials from lock cylinder housing.

Carefully inspect lock cylinder housing for damage from the above operation. If damage is apparent, lock cylinder housing must be replaced.

Installation

Replace lock cylinder housing, if damaged.

Install steering column lock gear, steering column lock housing bearing and column lock gear retainer.

Install trim and electrical parts.

Install new ignition switch lock cylinder as described in this section.

NOTE: When the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, some abnormal drive symptoms may occur while the powertrain control module relearns its adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven 16 km (10 miles) or more to relearn the strategy.



Connect battery ground cable.

Check operation of lock cylinder.

 

Why won't it turn? Is it broken, or is the key bad or missing? Are you sure you are using the right key? If it is broken, I would drill it out as Ken outlined. If you just lost the key or it is worn, I would get a locksmith to either make you a new key or pick the lock to turn it. Then it can be removed. The locks are not difficult to pick. Did you try wiggling the steering wheel while turning the lock. Maybe it is just jammed up.