The key freespins in the ignition. I had to strip it down and now have to push in this contraption and bump the starter solenoid to start it now. So I need a new steering column I guess. The shifter is on the column and its tilt steering. This is an 87 302 Bronco.

So I guess my question is what is involved in removing and replacing it? I see the nut I have to take off, then I need a steering wheel puller. What else will I need? Whats involved in putting my key ignition portion in the new column? Do I need a tool for that? What about the shifter?

I looked at online junkyards and seen one for $175. Is that good? If my 87 Bronco 302 has OD than its an AOD and not a C6 correct?

All help appreciated

 

I don't think you need a whole steering column. My guess is that you either need a new key lock cylinder (should be able to buy one at any auto parts store, but won't be keyed the same) or more likely the start actuator (ford part, but reasonably priced), which is a metal leverage device that "actuates" the starter switch that is lower on the column. If you are fairly mechanically adept, you can do either of these yourself. you will need to pull the steering wheel, unscrew the turnsignal lever, and disconnect the turnsignal wiring harness under the dash to give yourself enough slack to get the turnsignal switch out of your way. Be gentle with the tunsignal switch, it is expensive. Steering columns can be very frustrating, so I wouldn't try it unless you are fairly confident. I have replaced the actuator in both my 91 bronco and 91 f250, the first one took me probably 5 hours and a lot of expletives. I don't recall needing any specialty tool, just screwdrivers, some small nut drivers, and a lot of patience. Hope this helps.

 

Yeah, but how much will the ignition and starter actuator things cost and how does it come out? The column itself is gutted and stripped down and looks like crap. Thats why I want to replace it entirely. How much for those two items vs. the entire column?