Hi Lyle -

Even though the new Lock Cylinder # (113 905 855 B) is different than the
original Vanagon (251 905 855 B) it will work just fine.  The difference is
in the Key Code (113 is VB, 251 is N, which designates the milling profile
length), but they're identical units otherwise.  Oh yeah, another difference
is price - it's a bit more for the Vanagon variety.  I run a 113 in my 84.
Sure, I have two keys now, one for ignition and one for the doors, but that
don't bother me, but it would others.

I'm assuming you have carefully drilled the hole into the housing to depress
the retaining spring that holds it in (sometimes the hole is already there -
the steering lock assy I have [out of an 82, but 80-91 is the same] next to
my keyboard right now does not have the hole).  Once depressed, it should
slide out with very little difficulty unless there's a burr holding things
up.  Use a bit of penetrating fluid like Liquid Wrench.  The other one
should just slip right in.
--
Jim Thompson
84 Westfalia 2.1 "Ole Putt"
73 K Ghia Coupe "Denise"
72 411 Station Wagon "Pug"
oldvolkshome@gmail.com
http://www.oldvolkshome.com
**********************************
On 9/12/06, Marion Lathem <resiolute@copper.net> wrote:
>
> I have a new key assembly for our Vanagon,  I have the old assembly about
> half way out... stuck solid... ?  The new key, the rubber is wider... I hope
> it's the same..?  How do I put the new one in, or remove the old one before
> I messed it up..?  Didn't find that in the Bentley..?
> New key assembly number 113 905 855B
>
> Lyle Lathem
> 1985 Vanagon GL