Ignition switch replacement

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Jan 9, 2003 | 04:51 PM

WHEX7777

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Ignition switch replacement

My 1991 F-150 truck (no tilt steering) will not start. When turning the ignition lock there is no resistance and it's not engaging in the start and run positions and hence won't crank the starter. It just rotates freely and does nothing. Jumpering the battery to the starter solenoid will crank the starter so I think the problem is the ignition switch. I replaced the lock and tumbler and that did not fix it. I bought the electrical ignition switch and cannot seem to get to it in the steering column. I've taken the steering wheel off already. Any help with this problem would be appreciated. I read a few other posts talking about an actuator??? Where is this? When turning the ignition lock a metal half circle looking thing moves in and out. Don't know if that's the actuator.

Jan 9, 2003 | 05:18 PM

steve83

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From: Memphis, TN

Ignition switch replacement

Put your steering wheel back on and pull the lower dash shroud under the column (4 twist fasteners) and the column shroud (1 screw on the bottom). Then you'll be able to see the operating rod running down the top of the column and the ignition switch under the dash above the pedals. See if the rod moves when you turn the key. If it doesn, change the switch. If not, let us know & someone will post further instructions.

Jan 9, 2003 | 06:38 PM

Racerguy

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From: BC, Canada

Ignition switch replacement

Today at work I fixed a 1989 F150 with the same problem. The actuator was broken. It is a metal piece that basically connects the gear on the end of the ignition lock cylinder to the rod that runs down to work the switch. I could try to post instructions here on how to change it but I really think you'd be better off with a good manual with pictures etc. You have to dismantle the tilt column to replace it. It's a bit of a pain in the youknow.

Jan 9, 2003 | 10:38 PM

steve83

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From: Memphis, TN

Ignition switch replacement

Racer
His is NON-tilt.

Jan 9, 2003 | 11:26 PM

Racerguy

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From: BC, Canada

Ignition switch replacement

oops I missed that
lol
the job is still pretty similar though

Jan 13, 2003 | 09:06 AM

WHEX7777

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Ignition switch replacement

Thanks. The rod doesn't move when turning the key, but I can start the truck by manually pushing the rod down with plyers. However I can't get it into gear. Do you know if there is any way to overide this and get the truck into drive with the actuator broken??

Jan 13, 2003 | 09:33 PM

steve83

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From: Memphis, TN

Ignition switch replacement

Only by breaking something else, and you probably wouldn't be able to steer, anyway. Just bite the bullet & take it apart. As long as you watch REALLY carefully as you pull parts out, you won't have any trouble.