I went out to start my truck yesterday morning when it was 16*F outside. I felt the normal, POS tumbler resistance and then it spun freely until a stop which only allowed the glow plugs to glow. So I had to take the car to work.

Is there a specific procedure or write-up on how to replace these?

A Google search rendered:I have a feeling it's not that easy. Any specific lubrication?

 

Yes, it's that easy...... usually.

 

unfortunately that is not your problem. you broke the ignition actuator.
this is a much bigger job, and requires taking the top of the column apart. what truck is this on, the 86 or the 2000?

 

****, I thought this was going to be a new tumbler swap. On the '86... Top of the column, meaning pull the wheel?

 

x2 Same thing happened to mine. PITA taking the top of the column apart.

 

yup. it is about a 2-3 hour job.

here is a writeup on it:
Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums - View Single Post - help with ignition actuator

 

I think this essentially the same with pictures and on a FSB: Ignition Actuator Replacement on an '85 w/tilt - FSB Forums

Edit:
Will engine assembly "white grease" work for lubricating the parts? The tube I have isn't really affected by the cold temps.

 

don't see why not. i usually just put them together with a mix of axle grease and powered graphite. i never have any white grease around when i need it.

 

Got it done. I did break the middle, plastic shroud closest to the steering wheel. I used engine assembly grease on the actuator, every other sliding part and the ignition tumbler. I popped those bearings out and greased them. putting the spring in is the trick to the whole thing. Also, don't forget to reinstall the snap ring.

Thanks for the tips.

 

My tumble is getting very stiff so i think if mine breaks i'm just going to use switches and override the steering lock. It's not like it's easy to start anyway...

 

It's really not a difficult repair. When you're in there looking at things, you'll start wondering, "why the **** did they do it like this?!?!"

 

The FSB thread said non-tilt columns are different... if so, what would cause it to be really stiff only when it's cold out?

 

when it is cold out the grease gets stiff, making the actuator bind up and break.

the difference with the tilt and non tilt column is that non tilt does not have tilt pins to pull out and loose

 

Should i lube it with white lithium grease, bearing grease, or graphite?

 

Use a grease that's not affected by the cold. Repack the bearings with axle grease and use engine assembly grease. It was brick out when I did mine and that engine assembly grease was still nice and greasy.