Thank you Puzzler.

Just to cover all bases went ahead and ordered the steering lock assembly and I will be able to get acquainted with the locking setup with the new black ring and tumbler.
It will be here next week and I will be able to go with plan B if cutting away at the black ring runs into overtime.

After talking to a friend about die grinding I have a question.
Were you using an air powered tool for the die grinding bit?
I understand the bits require high rpm to be effective.
None of my battery powered or AC drills will reach the speed an air tool can provide.
I need to check the specs on the Dremel.
Still having a difficult time picturing being able to cut around the black ring on the outside as you mentioned.
Only one way for me to find out.

The car is an hour away and parked front first in a garage.
Can't go there as often as I would like and have to make sure to have everything needed.
I do have the option to get it towed here and contacted a reputable towing company and worked out the details just in case.
Unfortunately it will need to be towed with a regular truck with the rear end lifted and rolling on the locked and centered front wheels.
I was assured this would not be a problem.