I searched some threads and can't find what I'm looking for. I lost keys and I need to replace the ignition key cylinder. I took off the surround plastic,(small top piece and larger bottom) but access to the rivets are deeper in. Do I need to take off the gauge cluster? Never did that before and a little apprehensive. Or can you drop the steering column a few inches to get a cutoff wheel in?

 

Use a chisel to turn the rivets. They are not really rivets but bolts that have a head that will snap off as you tighten. They should unscrew like a regular bolt.