Not sure what you mean by unlocking the ignition. ( I feel so dumb ). I did not unfasten the ignition switch from the steering column when I swapped the blower motor. Perhaps that was where I went wrong. I'll dismantle the steering completely if yanking right or left doesn't do the trick.
 
Hopefully I can avoid dash removal again! I have lumber to haul soon.
 
Thanks for your advice/encouragement.
 
Phil Menchions
'89 Westy
 
> Date: Fri, 20 May 2011 20:42:34 -0400
> From: dbeierl@ATTGLOBAL.NET
> Subject: Re: Steering wheel locked after replacing blower motor
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> 
> At 07:30 PM 5/20/2011, Phil Menchions wrote:
> >
> >I'm familiar with the situation you described usually seen when the
> >wheels are cut hard over when parking. In this instance the wheels
> >are straight ahead but I suppose it is possible that with the
> >steering column torquing after the bolts were loosened it may have
> >had the same effect. I'll give it a go again tomorrow.
> 
> Doesn't matter what direction, only that there's tension against the
> lock bolt. Your description qualifies in spades. If it were to
> happen again I suggest unlocking the ignition before bolting it back up.
> 
> >It is also disconcerting that simply having the battery ground wire
> >hooked up results in the side marker and dash lights illuminating.
> >The only electrical mod was to splice a spade connector for the
> >blower motor itself. Otherwise it was clean up whatever grounds
> >could be see, plug in and go. (or not)
> 
> Suggest begin by unplugging the headlight switch. That will show
> whether your issue is with the switch or not.
> 
> Yours,
> DAvid