ignition key lock cylinder

The ignition key lock cylinder in my '87 Olds Ciera seems to be worn out/broken... it is loose and seems to be working itself out of the column!
This is complicated by the key, not "finding" the right place to move, through the twisting motion... will not turn to either the 'start' or 'on' positions except after much jiggling. (and PANIC; I must add.)
Is there a screw that has worked loose in the column? Should I pull the cylinder out the rest of the way; just to make the key jiggling easier?
I don't have a steering wheel puller.
Do I have any options?
Thanks, Jay

 

Rent a puller from Autozone or buy one at Sears (20 bucks or less if on sale). You cannot remove the wheel without a puller.

There is a lock retaining screw which may have backed out. You'll have to take the wheel off and have a look. Possibility of the cylinder itself being bad. Shouldn't be more than a couple of bucks at the parts store.

 

You will need a lock plate depressor also.I suggest doing the repair soon because if you don't and it gets to where the key won't turn it will be a major pita.

 

Thank you, Gentlemen.
Now, this brings up another question...
What is a 'lock plate depresser', and will I know how to use it?
I was reading through my Haynes book earlier, but don't recall mention of this tool.
Thanks, Jay

 

You should be able to rent it also and is very easy to use.You will see when you get it it is a simple tool.Look in Joes link to cyberrpartspro it mention s the tool.

 

It's shaped like a horseshoe and uses a threaded section in the center to depress the lock plate so you can remove the retaining clip.

I bought both the lock plate tool and the puller for the wheel from Sears with a lifetime Craftsman warranty for under 40 bucks

Otherwise, rent them at Autozone.