Anyone know the steps for removing the steering column bracket that bolts to the bottom of the dash. Also, I am unable to remove the key.

 

Removing the steering column was pretty easy. There are two nuts underneath that you need to hold to take out the bolts. It was simpler to remove the gauge panel and put the ratchet through the hole than it was to feel around to find the nuts. Remember that the column is all one piece down to and including the steering gear box so complete removal includes jacking up the front end (for clearance), removing the pitman arm or drag link, as well as the steering wheel to get the whole thing out. Sounds hard but really isn't. It IS a pain due to the length though.
The steering lock had been removed from mine, so I can't help you there.

 

here you have a earlier thread that can help you solve this. https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...chematics.html
The lock is pretty easy to remove...

/S

 

Thanks gentlemen. I have successfully (with a cut-off wheel) removed the two attaching bolts behind the instrument panel. Can you tell me if there is a bolt that squeezes that bracket to the steering column? It looks as though there was and the head has been broken off of mine.

 

Nice!
I haven't pulled that apart myself but when looking on pictures from those who have it looks like the bracket is hold tight by a bolt that's knocked off, purposely I suppose.

But in order to remove the lock you do not have to separate the bracket from the pipe, you can take apart the mechanism anyway.

/S

 

Thanks Simon. I would like to take it apart to the extent I can to clean, sandblast and paint but can't figure it out. I will try a stud remover on the broken bolt. I also noticed a slotted screw on the back side of the bracket in the center of the bracket??? The key will turn a little but can't be removed.

 

Well my key cylinder (name??) was hold to the bracket only by a bolt on the backside of the bracket. If you would like to take apart the rest of the mechanism (steering lock rod ...) you would have to get out the wedge (again name??) in the center of the mechanism you move when turning the ignition on. Once that wedge is out you can take them apart as well.

/Simon

 

There is a bolt under the column that is a special twist off head bolt the clamps the bracket to the tube. To remind you need to use a screw extractor. The flat head screw you see on the back hold the ball bearing and spring that puts tension on the on off chrome paddle switch to keep in the position you choose. The lock cylinder is held in with a tapped in plug. You will have to drill it out to remove the lock cylinder.