When I did mine 3 years ago some people were cutting off the end of the steering lock assy off that goes in the steering column. I can only assume yours was one of the early "fixes" that did the cut. I can't think of any other way to remove the steering lock completely - you should be ok. (I just removed the pin and spring - no cutting or replacing- it still locks and I have had no problems)
And just a note that rekcah is the one to thank for the pictorial - he fixed his and then took it apart again to document it!