Ok, I went ahead and rigged the unit I have. Pulled off the plate, watched the spring fly across the room. Turned the unit over and let the pin drop out. Put the key in and.....

It works perfectly. Just one question.....

WHY DOES THE DAM STEERING WHEEL LOCK SYSTEM STILL WORK!!!!!

I thought that taking that out would kill the steering wheel lock. If it does not, then what in the hell is it in there for to begin with? Did they add it just to **** ME OFF!

Anyway, if someone knows, let me know. I am assuming that the steering wheel will still lock with this mod. If so, then thanks everyone for telling me about it.

Oh, and PS. Will I have to replace that pin I drilled out on the steering wheel collar, or will the clamp be enough to hold everything together?