The key lock does not return back from the start position quickly and may be sticking in the start mode. I have had some starting problems, like the lights going out. The starting system now works, but only from the solenoid. Is the return spring in the key lock, the steering columm, or the ignition switch? Also, how do you inspect or replace it? Thanks.

 

When you turn the key, a long rod actuates the switch, which is down the column. Failure to return, is something amiss inside the column.

 

its probably gumed up along the shaft in the lock cylinder or in the switch or all three for that matter. over the years these trucks get a lot of dust and dirt in there then gums up the greese that ford used for lubercateing the whole works. and combine the cold weather it gets to where the whole mess is sticking usually in the start position.you could pull the whole mess apart clean it all out then lube back up with some good greese. also a temp. fix if its way to cold is wd40 spray it all over the works and turn the key forward and back several times spraying liberally. then when it warms up you can do it the right way. when it warms up out this problem will probably fix its self. but its best to take it all apart clean and relube.

 

This will be an on going problem as long as you keep the truck. Replacing pieces and lubing will help. I have replaced the ignition switch and the tumbler assembly for other reasons and it has helped it, but you still have to wiggle and help the key back into the run position, especially during cold weather.

It's funny after you have the truck for awhile, you do things by habit. I find myself making sure the key is in the correct position now on every car I drive.

 

I've had a similar issue with my '84 F250. The key does not
quite come back to the run position after starting. I have to
tweak it a little so that it does. How do I know? Easy... the
dash gauges and lights don't work if I don't! I told my son
about this and he just smiled and said "That's what they call
personality! All the old trucks have it.".

Ed

 

mine 3 do the same thing I got some spray at the parts store that had teflon in it and sprayed then turned a couple times repeted again, I do this couple times a year and it seem to work ok

 

I had the same problem in a 70 Maverick and I sprayed WD40 in the switch and worked it a little and it was fine from then on.