I have read the pdf file (great job; kudos to the author) and many of the related postings about the fix. Like others, I too have been quoted $1,000+ by the Chrysler dealer ...

From the comments it appears that the "locking pin" is the item at fault if the key will not turn.

I think that in my case this may be the problem because even when I can turn the key, my steering wheel does not really "lock" (when key is turned to the off position the wheel still rotates. which I interpret to mean that the pin is "jammed").

So it would seem that if someone can live without a "locking" steering wheel (I can, if it means saving some money) then removing/drilling-out the pin per the last page of the pdf instructions (:Re-Using Old Assembly") fixes the problem and will allow the key to rotate.

Am I interpreting this right? Is there another reason, that I've missed, for replacing the assembly with a new one? Has anyone had any problems after removing the pin permanently?

Last and most important, will just drilling the pin out (which can be done with a lot less fuss than taking the assembly out) work, or, does the spring also have to be removed?

I know this is a long running thread but I will appreciate your feedback ...

Thanks !!