Hi ... I've just bought a 1988 full size Bronco (302) and a 1988 F150 4x4 (351W). Got both of them dirt cheap - seems V8s are being given away these days. Hey, I'm a sucker for a bargain. Anyway, both need some work to get on the road, but nothing major. Biggest question is that they both could use new ignition key cylinders ... I understand this is typical. Is it just as easy to go buy a couple complete steering columns at a junkyard ($50), or should I just go to NAPA and get the cylinders with new keys? Doesn't the steering wheel need to come all the way off to replace the cylinder? And, looks like one of them could use a new actuator rod ... how big a deal is that to replace? Also, both are very hard to get into 4WD ... any trick there, or is that typical too? Thanks much. Dan ... Northern NJ

 

First off, Welcome to FTE, the best of the rest.
Are the columns tilt? if so they can be a real pain.
Not too fimilliar with 88 but I have seen instructions for
some and they look to be a real PITA.
If the cylinders are good in the junkyard ones are good
and you would be upgrading to tilt I would say get them.

I take it you have manual 4x4 vs. electric?

 

Current columns are not tilt. Yes, manual 4x4, not electric. Thanks. Dan

 

welcome to fte and the new jersey chapter

replacing the key cylinder is a very easy task.
here is a link to the directions for a non tilt column
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e2...ringcolumn.jpg

total time for replacement is only about 15 minutes on a non tilt column, and 2-3 minutes for a tilt column, cause you do not have to take the wheel off on a tilt column.

if you can find 2 tilt columns in a junkyard, i would do the swap.

steering columns are the same between the bronco and pickup trucks, so you have a larger source to look at. any full size column will swap from a bronco/F150, up to the F450/ super duty.

the actuator cam is not that hard to do if you have mechanical knowledge and patience.

as to the hard shifting 4X4 thing, that is a standard when it is not used. the shifter pieces that bolt to the transfer case adapter are aluminum and steel. the 2 parts get corroded over time from lack of use and either get stiff, or seize up. usually just giving it a good spray down with pb blaster and moving the shifter will loosen it up, but sometimes you will need to take it apart and clean and grease it.

oh, and by the way, you are now officially a member of the jersey chapter

now you need to get some pictures and set up a gallery