I have an 89 F-150, its automatic. When I turn the key it turns freely and it won't start I have to start it from the solenoid. The part that is broken is the almost c shaped part the pushes the rod into the ignition switch. The the sliding shaft behind the c shaped part snaped off. Is there anyone that has replaced that or knows how to replace that that can help me. If not does somebody know where i can get a diagram or exploded view b/c my haynes manual doesn't have this. Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

Go to the parts department at the local Ford dealer. They will help you out and probaly will give you a look at the blow-up in the parts book and even a copy. I was a counterman years ago at a dealer and we would do it all the time. It's good p/r and chances are thats were you are gonna have to get the parts anyway. Also I believe there was a recall on the ignition switches on that year Ford vehicles. So who know you might get some of it done for free if it is part of the recall.

 

I can't remember what that part is called, but I think it's called an "actuator rod". To replace it involves removing the ignition switch and the steering wheel. Instructions on both of those operations should be in your Haynes book. If you have tilt steering replacing it is a little more difficult. The ignition switch is not where the key turns, it is mounted in a box lower down on the steering column. The "actuator rod" is the piece that transfers the turning action of the key at start-up to a rod that passes through the actual ignition switch. The switch itself is a simple sliding contact type of thing. Once you start taking things apart you'll get the idea of how it all fits together. Be sure to remove the broken piece so it doesn't cause a problem later. The part is available at part supply houses if your dealer doesn't stock it. The part also keeps you from moving the gear selector without using the key. In my case to install the part I actually cut off about a half inch of the replacement part just to make it easier to install.( I have tilt steering) Because of that, the selector lever no longer locks. For some people this could be a safety issue. Once you study it a little the repair is relatively simple. As a previous post mentioned it would help to get the "blow-up" from the dealer parts counter, but I think you can probably handle it anyway!.....best of luck