- Because the switch and cylinder work with the car battery, you need to shut off the power as a safety precaution. This is simply done by disconnecting the negative (black) battery cable; loosen the clamp nut for the cable, pull it off the terminal post and place the cable somewhere isolated so it can't accidentally snap back on. If the truck has a dual battery system, you need to disconnect the cables on both of them. Please note that there can be side effects from disconnecting the battery.
The Powertrain Control Module will lose all the information in its memory and will require time after reconnecting the cable(s) to re-learn things like the truck's operating values. Also, keep the key with you should the power locks accidentally engage. - The ignition switch needs to be in the "run" or "on" position--the position before you would crank the engine--to remove the cylinder. Turn the switch into this position with the key. There is a small hole in the bottom of the steering column directly below the switch. You need a screwdriver or a punch tool that is 1/8 inch wide. Insert this tool into the hole to release the tab holding the cylinder in place.
As you press this tool in the hole, pull the lock cylinder out of the steering column. When you're ready to install a lock cylinder, press in the retaining pin on the side of the cylinder and turn it to the "run" position to fit it in the steering column. - If you need to remove the ignition switch, you need to reach in and from underneath the steering column. To reach it, remove the center trim panel and the knee bolster on the driver side. Next, remove the steering column covers
Turn the key switch into the "run" position and you can then unplug the electrical connector for the switch. Remove the retaining screws (it should take a Phillips screwdriver) and you can detach the the switch from the actuator pin. When installing the switch, make sure its slot for the actuator pin is in the "run" position.
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