My ignition switch jammed. The simplest solution appears to be a junkyard steering column with key, which I bought on eBay. I am willing to use a 2nd key rather than rework the cylinder.

Before I remove the old steering column I would like some pointers. I can remove the airbag and the steering wheel.

What precautions should I take to make sure the newer column fits the gears at the bottom end? Are there step-by-step procedures I should follow?

Suggestions are welcome.

For reference the eBay item is 230213863130.
I don't know why the lock cylinder jammed. At this point it can't be removed or repaired.

I still have the option to remove the lock casting and replace it with the casting from the replacement column.

For reference the casting is shown here as #2, part number ending with 240.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=GB43&mospid=47359&btnr=32_0856&hg=32&fg=30

How is that easier than replacing the entire steering column?
After the original problem with the key not being able to turn the cylinder to start the car, we removed the plastic shell below the steering column.

We removed the ignition switch -- shown here as #3 with part number ending in 841.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=GB43&mospid=47359&btnr=32_0856&hg=32&fg=30

We forced the lock cylinder into a position that freed the steering lock and operated the ignition switch with a screwdriver.

Whatever caused the cylinder to jam was compounded by the force we applied to turn it enough to disable the steering wheel lock.

SO, the choice is replace the entire steering column or just the casting (#2 in the illustration).

Since I have a COMPLETE steering column with key, that appears to be the simplest solution.

I'm so glad I save old sent emails..... Ok spelling and grammar is bad.... But this may help/

Well saying its jamed is not enought information. I have a feeling your talking about the lock cylinder since even if your actual ignition switch messed up being able to turn the key IF the lock cyclinder is good is highly likely. Basically saying the key is stronger than the "jamed" switch. Lets say I'm right in assuming your its just the lock cylinder not turning like your putting in the wrong key. Ok FIRST get out a can of carb cleaner, a rag and some kind of comressed air either a keyboard cleaner (compressed air in a can) or if you have a air compressor hose and sprayer "gun". Shoot some carb cleaner in work the key in and out a few times and spray the compressed air in the hole WITH the rag around the "gun" to catch the dirty carb cleaner. AND repeat a few time. DOn't let the cleaner sit in to long before blowing it out. Now if that doesn't work try having a new "FACTORY" cut made NOT A COPY. I have never cared or looked for a "key shop" that can copy thoes keys I ALLWAYS get a factory NON COPY key made when needed or if the old key its self was the problem. Never use anything other than graphite in the key holes no WD-40 or any kind of oil. That is what may have caused the problem in the first place..

check this out:
http://www.allexperts.com/user.cgi?m=4&expID=91269&catID=805

this guy is a BMW expert.

You should have bought a new steering lock mechanism and a new barrel from BMW. £70 for streering lock, £30 for new key. And its an EASY JOB. Same thing happened to me on a 97 328.