1988 F-150 4x4 300 I6
4 spd t-18
Tilt Steering (I don't know if that is important info...it might be)



I went to start my truck yesterday, and it would not start,the lock cylinder kind of felt funny, It would turn to run, but when I turned it to start, it felt mushy and didn't have the spring back feel to it. I automaticaly assumed it was the cylinder, but it wasn't. after taking the cylinder out, it was fine. I did some more poking and discovered that the linkage that pushes on the actual starter switch(on the stearing column) was broke on the top where it connects to the key removal lock(the one you push to remove the key). My question is... can you by that linkage anywhere? when I looked at it, it doesn't look like a servicable iteam. Do I need to grab a whole new stearing column from the junk yard? or can I go to Ford and order new linkage?

Thanks for your time and help

 

Hello Ringkong,

You can go to Ford and order this part providing it is not discontinued. You may look into another column if you prefer especially being a standard tranny. It is alot easier to change. Check some prices out and see how you want to deal with it.

 

The part is called an Ignition Acutator. What happens is the actuator slides in and out of the column and eventually it looses lubrication. You can buy the part at any ford dealership and usually costs about 12 bucks. When you install the new one take a q tip and clean out the rail in which the actuator slides, then lube it with white lithium grease (to prevent future binding).

This is a common occurance and usually happens on rigs with about 120K and up..

good Luck!