I remember reading that it's a common problem so I'll assume a few here know what I'm talking about. That aluminum link piece in tilt columns that connects the ignition cylinder to the ignition switch rod and in autos locks the shifter.


What's it really called?


Anyone know if anyone is making a more durable maybe steel version?


Mine the bottom portion is broke off flush and I can't get it out, any tips, tricks?

 

There are a couple of excellent videos on youtube. Search for: ford ignition actuator rod

 

the rod is what goes from the ignition actuator to the ignition switch.
the pot metal part is simply called the lower actuator.
to get the broke off tab out, i use a small set of tweezers.

 

bump 567890

 

I call it the igniton switch rack , no problems ordering it while calling it that . Can be a bear to change , potmetal crap.

 

Tilt wheel ~ Left: 4 M/T / Right: A/T

 

What I need is the best way to replace the darn thing without taking the whole truck apart. I got the part, taking one out of a parts truck, but also have to remove it in one piece. Basically do I need to take the tilt head of the column off, sure looks like I do, if so how? Pull those two theaded pins that it pivots on?


I did this once before years ago and remember thinking it wasn't as bad as everyone made it out to be, but I'll be darned if I can remember how I did it.

 

The last time I did this on my "88 F-150 I found a good write up from the full size Bronco forum. Someone from this forum had actually linked to the write up. I would try doing a search on here or the other forum I mentioned.

 

If you're asking about the 3E723 actuator (D1AZ-3E723-C - see pic in post 6), it's available from Ford.

Not only does it fit 1978/91 F100/350, Bronco & Econoline, but myriad 1971/80's Passenger Cars as well.

The troublesome turd isn't the actuator, but the 3B661 (E2TZ-3B661-A replaced D0AZ-3B661-A) locking lever. It's serrations wear down, causing the tilt wheel to flop around.

This little charmer is obsolete - no one has any!

 

I have 3 hours to get this done, I just digging in I don't have time to search

 

I guess all I really need is to these damn pins pull or screw out?

 

I don't know what pins you are talking about. I'm not sure I would remember.

 

Go to the top of this page where it says search. Type in "actuator rod replacement". Click on search. The first answer(under #2) of the first thing that comes up, gives a walk through of the procedure. Some day I will learn how to do a link.

 

The tilt pivot pins pull out .

 

yup, if i remember correctly you screw a 10/32 screw in the pin, then pull it out with a pair of pliers.