Need help with an unusual ignition lock problem

[jamnett]

Our '88 Camry ignition lock works ok. The problem is the part inside the steering column which actually rotates the ignition switch. It's the one with the little flat blade part that slips into the switch and moves it around from off-accessorie-start etc and is rotated by the inner end of the lock cylinder. The flat blade part broke off. I spoke with a local dealer parts guy to see if I can buy one and got some bad news. He said that part isn't supposed to come out so they don't sell just that piece.

He said I would have to replace that section of the steering column and the part would be about $250. The actual bad news is it doesn't sound like a do-it-yourself project. He said they torque the bolts until the heads break off (he said it was an anti-theft thing) and they have to be drilled out and it's complicated. The labor time is about 4 hours, so with WA state sales tax, parts, and labor it's going to be about $750.

The thing is I lost my job due to a shut down, we have two kids in college, and my son (it's his car) only works part time. I'd like to know if anyone has done this job or knows something about it. I'd prefer to do it myself rather than borrow money, but if there's potential for screwing it up worse, I don't want to tackle it.

[jamnett]

I see in the shop manual that the part I need is called the "upper bracket" and the procedure is different for tilt wheel cars. We have tilt, and it looks to be easier. No drilling or using a screw extractor. It's one bolt and nut.

I'd still like hear from anyone who has done this with tilt steering.

Thanks and sorry I didn't turn one more page in the manual.