wierd starting problem
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Elder User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 550
Likes: 1
From: Effingham,IL USA
wierd starting problem
got an 83 f100. replaced the key lock cylinder because it was wore out. the ignition was always hard to turn when it was cold so i replaced the ignition switch after the lock. got the new switch from napa and its just as hard to turn as the old one. when it gets cold like below 10 degrees its all you can do to turn it to start. i mean you almost have to put pliers on it. the new napa switch doesnt turn easy, why? i even put electrical grease in the old one (switch, not cylinder) and it doesnt turn any easier. the only thing i can come up with is that its made that way or ive got a bad switch from napa. its adjusted right, just hard to turn and it gets really bad cold. its a non tilt column. anybody who replaced their switch have the same problem?
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 9,987
Likes: 7
From: Memphis, TN
wierd starting problem
The lock cylinder pushes a gear rack that's packed with old, dry, dust-contaminated grease. Pull the steering wheel & the column shroud and spray around the wheel lock pin thoroughly with carb cleaner (put a catch-pan in the floor), and pull the lock cylinder again, and shoot inside there, too. Then spray in fresh white lithium grease. It'll be slick as whale $#!+. 
Thread Starter
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Elder User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 550
Likes: 1
From: Effingham,IL USA
wierd starting problem
ok let me try this again. i've replaced both the key cylinder and the ignition switch. all of my resistance is in the switch. i disconnected the rod that connects the cylinder and the switch at the switch and the lock moves effortlessly. problem is in the switch itself, its too damn hard to turn new out of the box
Moderator
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 56,997
Likes: 2,742
From: Virginia
wierd starting problem
I just put a new ignition switch on my 1980, and it's not hard to turn. I put wd40 on the upper column like steve said, and it fixed my cold weather stiffness. I replaced the switch because of another problem I thought I had, and it turns out I like the new switch better than the old. The "off" position seems more positive. By the way, the switch I bought came from advance auto. I don't know if it's considered the cheapie version, but it's not stiff like yours.
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 9,987
Likes: 7
From: Memphis, TN
wierd starting problem
So you don't think it's in the drive gear, upper, or lower actuator?
Are you sure the ignition rod is engaged in the switch correctly? If not, it can bind against the column.
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Are you sure the ignition rod is engaged in the switch correctly? If not, it can bind against the column.
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