So my uncle lost the keys for his truck, a 1997 dodge ram 1500.
Went to the dealership and got the key code had a locksmith make a key but it didn't work even though im pretty sure the ignition is stock since the key he lost had the dodge logo on it. But anyway im gonna try and replace the ignition lock with a new one from autozone, and was wondering if you take it off without having the old key? also how do i get the top piece of the steering colum off since the steering wheel tilt is sticking out

 

Why not go back to the locksmith?

 

Well he said there was no guarantee it would work, and all sales were final so i don't really wanna go back and spend another $20 and hope the new one he makes works.

 

20 bucks to cut a key???? Dealership did mine for less than 10...... (cutting from a code too.)

Grab the 96 service manual from the faq section here, procedure for changing the ignition switch (part of the lock...) is in there.

 

I would not do business with someone that had this philosophy. And locksmiths are pretty regulated. I would go back...and then file complaint if he doesn't fix it.

Try a dealer as HeyYou stated. Remember, if you change ign cylinder, you cannot lock doors with same key!

 

And to change the ignition switch, you will most likely need a set of security/tamper proof torx bit's.

 

The dealership here wants over $20 plus tax.
Yeah i got the steering colum off and i need a security torx bit to take it off, plus
accoring to the manual you have to have the keys to take the lock cylinder out of the
ignition swith. So sine the old key he had unlocked the doors and the ignittion i took one of the door lock cylinders out and im gonna have a diff locksmith make a key for it.

 

So if it is the same price for the dealer to make the new key, whey not have them make it. They would be the ones to make it right for sure.