R1100GS - Can´t get key in "ON" position

[Ranch]

Hello.

I have a problem getting my key to the "ON" position... I can turn the key easily to the "P", "OFF" and "R" and use the steeringlock on both sides but when trying to turn the key to "ON" after the "R" position the key won´t turn anymore….

Is it somehow "German engineering" trying to be safe after having used the steeringlock? - When unlocking the steeringlock it was like I could key the key 180 degrees or something but after having played around with it for an hour or so I have lost track of what actually happened…

I have tried giving it som graphite spray, turning the key in the lock, taking the handlebar to both outer extremes but can´t find the correct trick

Help

Regards
Allan Ranch
Denmark

 

[bowser]

i am gussing worn key, same thing happens with one of mine and not the "spare" but probably a combination of wear on both key and lock

 

[Rugged Path]

Is it with only one key you have tried?
If yes, try a a new one cut and retry.
I periodically put in graphite powder for smoother turning.


Sent from Steve's fancy iPad using Tapatalk

 

[Ranch]

Hi.

I have tried with both original keys with the same result.. I find it odd that all other positions are easily found so my logic says the key is OK?

 

[Steptoe]

While were here, it's best that everyone removes the key barrel once every couple of years and cleans both the key chamber/barrel and the inside of the ignition where the barrel locates .... Very easy to remove. Turn the key to the on position, poke a pin or pick into the small hole in the front of the ignition housing about half way up next to the flange/rib, the pull the key out. The barrel will come out with the key, leave the key in it so you don't lose any of the wafers and give it a good clean and a dusting of graphite powder, same the inside of the ignition housing ..

 

[Ranch]

Will keep that in mind then I refind the ON position

 

[Ranch]

Problem solved…. Welded a nut to each of the security bolts and pulled apart the ignition and cleaned everything…. A lot of old sand mixed with a oil jammed the lock which now after a clean is as good as new.