So I just ordered the lmc5 steering for my steering wheel lock.i been reading some other threads that I also need the u locker.i have a 2003 with manual transmission.never have any problems yet,my steering wheel does lock when the key is off.do I need the unlocked also.

 

The LMC5 Unlocker is a simple device that is used to unlock the steering column in ANY 1997-2004 Corvette. The LMC5 Unlocker is designed to be used in conjunction with the installation of an LMC5 module. During the LMC5 installation, you attach the LMC5 Unlocker to the battery, attach the leads to the proper vehicle wires, and unlock the steering column.

Since the first factory recall disabled the steering column lock mechanism, your steering column will only lock if none of the factory recalls have been performed. Therefore,

You DO NOT need the LMC5 Unlocker if your steering column does not lock at all. This means that the steering wheel can be freely rotated without locking up, whenever the key is out of the ignition.

You DO need to use the LMC5 Unlocker when installing the LMC5 module if:

Your C5 steering column is currently locked, and does not unlock when the key is inserted and turned to "ON."
Your C5 steering column locks and unlocks normally.

Along with the LMC5 unlocker, you will need the LMC5 kit and necessary tools.

Note: There are other ways to use the LMC5 Unlocker to unlock the steering column, but the recommended method presented here is by far the safest with regard to your Corvette's electrical system. With the battery disconnected, and the LMC5 Unlocker only connected to the battery and then the column lock motor, you have no chance of accidentally damaging the BCM, or any other critical and expensive components. In the event of an emergency, where the risk of damage to your car or yourself (due to where your car broke down, etc.) outweighs any possible (however small) risk of accidentally damaging components, the emergency unlock procedure mentioned on the LMC5 Troubleshooting page can be used with or without the LMC5 Unlocker.

Another advantage of connecting the LMC5 Unlocker directly to the battery (and not to a cigarette lighter socket, etc.) is that the steering column can be unlocked with a dead battery, or even no battery at all, simply by connecting the LMC5 Unlocker to another 12 volt battery, or another vehicle battery.

The LMC5 Unlocker procedure is slightly different in automatic and manual transmission vehicles. Please be sure to follow the appropriate installation instructions included with each LMC5 Unlocker.

Note: If your steering column lock motor is severely jammed, or has failed in the locked position, not even the LMC5 Unlocker will be able to unlock your steering column. Fortunately, this seems to be a very rare occurrence, and the vast majority of all C5 steering columns can be easily unlocked. We recommend that you contact a knowledgeable Corvette dealer or Corvette service professional in the event that your column will not unlock, even after using the LMC5 Unlocker.

Since many 97-04 Corvettes have had the actual column locking mechanism disabled by dealer performed recall work, we see no reason to include an Unlocker with every LMC5. Why build in the cost for any item that you don't need?

Please check if your column locks with the key out of the ignition before ordering an LMC5 Unlocker. That way you can save the money if you don't need an Unlocker. Or, save the shipping (and time) by ordering one at the same time as an LMC5 Module.

 

Sounds like you do need it.

 

From Richards instructions, verbatim:

You DO NOT need to use the Unlocker if your steering column locks and unlocks normally.

The box on page 2 of the LMC5 instructions has a simple way to keep the column unlocked by temporarily removing one fuse.