I have to pull the steering wheel on my '86 F250, to replace the key switch. Do I need a specific steering wheel puller?

 

Why do you need to pull the steering wheel to do that job? That's not normally required....

 

Was told I had to, never done it before.

 

Are you wanting to replace... what? The key tumbler, all you need is a small drill bit or dental pick or similar. The ignition switch itself is located on the top of the dash column just behind the gauge cluster, it's generally easiest if you drop the column to access it.

Only reason why I could think of removing the steering wheels is if the piece of pot metal mechanism breaks, this actuates a rod that slides up & down the column that activates the actual switch.

This might help:

Ignition Actuator Replacement on an '85 w/tilt - FSB Forums

 

I've taken the cover off and can start it with pliers pushing the actuator rod down.

 

Without it turning the key? Then that's that pot metal thing, and yes, you need to pull the wheel for that.

I use a homemade steering wheel puller my father made, it's basically just an aluminum block with two holes for the puller bolts/screws and is a little bigger than a box of wooden matches that fits between the plastic shroud. But nothing special is required, just some fine-thread bolts to fit in those holes.

 

Thanks for the link, looks pretty complicated for a novice. But I have to try it.

 

Give yourself a lot of time and ask questions here as necessary and you'll be fine.

 

The stores carry steering wheel pullers. They are slotted and come with a selection of bolts. If they do not give you the correct bolts in the kit, just go to the hardware store and get some.

I have done this job before(replacement of actuator) and looking through that link above, he does a lot of things I do not think is necessary. In the beginning, I do not know why he drops the column and takes all that stuff out, and then puts the column back up. You do not need to pull the column down and disconnect the rod and such, just work from the steering wheel down.

 

Next dumb question. Where can I buy the part?

 

Dorman - Help Ignition Actuator - With Tilt Wheel 83280: Choose the best at Advance Auto Parts


Is this one acceptable? I hate buying anything from Advance.

 

Go to the Parts Department of your local Ford dealer and ask for the famous potmetal piece in steering columns that breaks, they'll know exactly what you're talking about if they've been in the business for a while. Last I remember, this part is still available from Ford, might go check....

 

The part at Advance is probably just as good. I bought a new tumbler and key from the dealer and was not impressed with the quality of the part at all.

 

Well I've gotten everything torn down to the point of taking the broke rod out...another setback cant get the wheel to tilt. The jackwagon PO has screwed it up somehow. Any thoughts? And thanks so much for all the help so far, it hasnt been that big of a deal, so far.

 

Oh, did I mention that I am blind for the most part. Thats the hardest part of the job.