Over the weekend, the lock cylinder in my '91 F150 decided that it no longer wanted to operate the electircal starter switch. In frustration and desperation, I managed to destroy the plastic lower steering column cover.

It's #5 in this picture:

http://www.trademotion.com/schematic...al/T023542.gif

I managed to get the truck started by pushing the rod that actuates the electrical switch with a pair of vice grips, but I can't leave it in it's current condition. I already aquired a new lock cylinder from Ford, but they are telling me that the lower column cover is obsolete/NLA. the one they ordered for me is not even close to what I need, as it mounts to the column with screws installed from the side. My cover mounts with screws installed pointed up the steering column right at the steering wheel. After more research, the part # I need(according to Ford) is D6OZ-3511-B, and all aftermarket resources that I have come across have come up with nothing.

Now here comes another thing that confuses me. In the owner's manual, it says that in order to tilt the colum, you should push forward on the turn signal stalk. In my truck, the stalk does indeed move forward, but there is certainly no tilting goin on. Are the non-tilt columns supposed to allow the T/S lever to be pushed forward, or do I really have a tilt column that's not functioning properly?

If anyone has the part I am in need of, and is willing to sell it, please let me know.

 

That style of tilt mechanism is VERY tight, especially if it doesn't get used much. Put moderate pressure on the turn signal stalk and wiggle the steering wheel up & down to try to release it. With the lower cover off, you may be able to see the "jaws" pointing rearward that actually hold the tilt setting. They need to come down to release. Try spraying some Liquid Wrench or WD-40 on them.