Stuck or frozen 1931 Cadillac ignition/transmission switch

[daveness]

I have a 31' Cad that I cannot get the key to turn.  I inherited this from my dad and the keys were hanging in the ignition so I believe they are correct.  But it has been sitting for about 30 years.  I've tried some lubricant in the key hole and of course tried the key in many different angles and degrees of insertion. I'm thinking if I can't get it to unlock that I may remove floor boards and remove the lock cable from the transmission to be able to shift and then temporarily wire an electrical ignition switch.   I'm hoping you have some comments on these questions:

Is there a known problem of these ignition switches sticking and if so, is there a trick? 
How is the ignition switch held into the dash?
Can a competent locksmith make a new key to work if you take it to them?

thanks for any help you can provide,
Dave Ness

[47bigcadillac]

In my 1932 there is an anti theft original mechanism linking the ignition key and gear lever - you cannot move the gear lever if the key is out so perhaps trying with different gears in may work ?

[Johan Boltendal #158]

Hi please sent me a  pm with your e mail adres and I will sent you the pictures of how it is. Johan

[daveness]

thanks 47bigcadillac I have that too.  I'm thinking I may need to disconnect the transmission lock cable at the transmission to allow it to shift.

Thanks Johan, I just emailed you with my info. 

[Chris Cummings]

The pin that holds the locking cable end in place at the transmission is threaded.  Screw a nut down onto it and keep turning to lift the pin out of its hole and free up the end of the locking cable.

Then you can remove the cable and ignition switch and work to free up the lock cylinder.  Hint:  pot metal strikes again!

Best wishes for successful solutions!

Chris Cummings

[DFarlow]

Curious if you ever were able to get the key to move.  The die cast swelling issue may keep the lock from moving.  I haven't seen much mentioned about this problem, but it seems many people are aware of it.  Jessers in Akron can rebuild these ignition sets with stainless sleeves as an option.

David