SUCCESS!!!!! Didn't know I knew so many cuss words! But in the end I got it out! EVen when I got it conpletely out the key still wouldn't turn! After seeing the condition of internal workings I'm surprised that it worked at all! I owe so many thanks to everyone on this forum that gave their input and directed me to the sites for the information I needed! Thanks again SLK230RED, the instructions you gave got me through the rough parts! Perhaps when I'm done with this project I can then add my 2 cents worth for those that come after me! I'm ordering the new parts tomorrow and hope to have the car up and running by the weekend!