There is 2 tricks
1. Make sure the key turns to the #1 position so that the wire can go in

2. The ends of the wires should be at an angle. I don't know the exact degree. Do a search. Someone posted it.

I feel your frustration. The first day I tried, I spend something like 2 hours trying to get the tumbler out.

I took a break and searched the forum. I made adjustments to my wire and the next day the tumbler came out in 5 minutes.

Good luck.

__________________
JR
1986 Gold 300E 4Dr automatic