Abstract: A steering column shaft locking device is disclosed in which a lever is rotatably mounted in a key cylinder when a key is inserted into the key cylinder, producing reaction force on a front wall of a housing, thereby causing the key cylinder to move backward against resilient force of a spring in order to certainly operate a key detecting switch provided in an ignition switch device. A guard plate is provided between the key cylinder and the front end of the housing so as to rotate it together with the key cylinder and guard plate when the key is rotated. Forward movement of the key cylinder is controlled by a retainer placed at the proximity thereof and a detent placed therein. The spring urges the key cylinder and the retainer in the forward direction and the detent radially inwardly. The guard plate serves to prevent abrasion of the lever and unauthorized insertion of tools into the device.

Abstract: A steering lock for an automobile includes a key cylinder, rotatable and axially movable upon rotation of a key inserted in the key cylinder, into locking engagement with a locking bar to lift the latter clear of engagement with a steering shaft. When the key cylinder is turned back and the key is pulled out, the key cylinder is moved back out of locking engagement with the locking bar, which then locks the steering shaft. The returning movement of the key cylinder depresses a spring-loaded control member into a key slot in the key cylinder. When the key cylinder is fully moved back, the spring-loaded control member is pulled out of the key slot. With such an arrangement, the key cylinder can directly engage the locking bar to displace the latter into a retracted position or allow the same to move to a locking position.