Key switch/Steering Column question

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Mar 8, 2003 | 11:18 PM

Chrisvte

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Jun 2002

Posts: 51

Likes: 1

From: The Wodlands, TX

Key switch/Steering Column question

I have an 88 with a tilt wheel/cruise column. The problem is because the column wasn't re-assembled correctly, the fuse blows when i put the right turn signal on. I found another column finally out of an 88 or 89 f250. It is also an automatic, but it doesn't have cruise or tilt wheel. This other column, I don't have a key for. I was wondering if there was a way to get the key switch out without having the key? I think it may be messed up anyway because it would turn without the key until i tried to remove it. I also wanted to know if the column will work in my Bronco. When I had it in, I noticed that the palce for the transmission linkage was higher and I had to rotate the selector lever to hook up the linkage. Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks

Mar 9, 2003 | 06:21 AM

chris93

Junior User

Joined: Mar 2003

Posts: 66

Likes: 0

Key switch/Steering Column question

can the original one not be properly reassembled instead of doin all that?

Mar 9, 2003 | 09:29 AM

Chrisvte

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Jun 2002

Posts: 51

Likes: 1

From: The Wodlands, TX

Key switch/Steering Column question

I don't know how to correctly re-assemble it. I do know that there is a snap ring that holds the steering shaft in place that is not seated in the grooove. All my attempts to seat the pin have failed. I do not know how to completely tear the column apart and re-assemble it. I tried to find a manual or some type of text and have been unsuccessful. The local Ford dealer doesn't even want to mess with it. The only thing that I can see is that the shaft is not seated in the middle of the housing. I think that this is why the turn signal switch shorts out when the right turn signal is turned on.

Mar 9, 2003 | 12:07 PM

steve83

Post Fiend

Joined: Nov 2002

Posts: 9,987

Likes: 7

From: Memphis, TN

Key switch/Steering Column question

Your Ford service or parts department can give you a photocopy of the instructions for working on the column, or the exploded view with all the PNs. I have the exploded one in this photo album, but it may be too small to use even when you zoom in. If you need the full-size JPG, send me a real e-mail and I'll attach it.

You can get a lock cylinder out of a column without the key by drilling out the small pin that retains it. On a tilt column, the pin is visible just below & behind the lock cylinder. On a NON-tilt, you have to pull the steering wheel to get to it.

Mar 9, 2003 | 07:45 PM

Chrisvte

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Jun 2002

Posts: 51

Likes: 1

From: The Wodlands, TX

Key switch/Steering Column question

My local Ford dealer will not photo copy the instructions for working on the column. They gave me a copy of the column and all the pieces from the parts counter. But that doesn't tell me exactly how to re-assemble it the correct way, or break it down. I am familiar wih tear down until you take the pins out and seperate the halves of the tilt column. Thanks for the info about the key lock. I will try that.