Ok, Please be genital, because I know Jack Squat about cars.
I will try and start from the beginning and try to explain, to the best of my knowledge.
I was having problems starting my bronco. The key was stiff and wouldn't spring back. So, through some research and a little help from FSB forums and a couple friends, we came to the conclusion, that the IGN Switch was going out.
I already replaced the Ignition Lock Cylinder and the Actuator Rod on top of the column seems to be moving the way it should (They way it should, But I am not sure. It is stiff and does bind up) I installed the IGN Switch yesterday and it started (once), when I slid the switch up the column, with the actuator rod connected. I then bolted it down. I could not get it to start, with the key. When I turn the key forward, the Aux lights, on the dash, light up, but will not start. I can bump start it with the solenoid. The BIG problem is, when I do get it started, It wont go into any gear. The shiftier will not move. I did get it to go into reverse, but it wont anymore.
Is there a "switch" on the IGN Switch, that tells the shiftier, that it can move? (did that make sense?) As of right now, the column is dropped to the seat and the IGH Switch is just sitting on the column.
Sorry for being all over the place, but I have been bouncing back and for on what to do.

1990 Full size Bronco XLT
302
E40D Trans?

Thanks

-dimwit-

 

There is an interlock. It sounds like you still have a problem in the mechanism and not the "Switch". With the switch out the key should operate smoothly, if yours is tight and binding you have a worn out column. How many miles on the truck, that is a good indicator as well as if it was a local truck and made lots of short runs. These will both lead to wearing out the column.

Good luck the easy fix could be to go to the junkyard and get another column for parts or to replace yours.

 

there is? Didn't think there was an interlock on a 1990. If that is true, then is it a feature wired into the switch? Or a separate mechanism?
Not highjacking the thread, Dimwit13 is a friend and I've been helping him over the phone for a couple days.

 

Thanks for the reply.
I think the reason the key is stiff, is because I was messing with the actuator and think I might have bent it. I will look at it today and see if this is the reason. It was moving fine, until I messed with it.
As for the Interlock? Is this what it is called? I am looking in my Chilton Manual and don't see anything about it. Is it located inside the column?

Again, Thanks for the reply

-dimwit-

 

I think if you had that feature, it would be on the column somewhere. I have a 1991 F250 and it does not have any kind of interlock. Or it was removed by the PO at some point

 

I believe it would be through the mechanism. If you did bend something that would be the cause of the shifting issue as well.

 

If you look at this diagram

The wedge shape finger is what keeps the shifter from moving.

 

Thank you for the replies.
Is the "wedge shaped finger" the same on all models?
Unless I am not looking at your diagram correctly, my broncos actuator rod is on the top of my column and looks much different.


-dimwit-

 

You might have to take the steering wheel off and get to the mechanism inside the steering column. There's a weak metal part in there that has a tendency to break. Dorman has the replacement part. Do a search for it on this site there should be pictures.

Then there's a rod that runs down the steering column to a switch and spring at the bottom of the steering column. It's not inside the column it runs on the outside on top. Check that for movement and you should be able to start your truck by moving this lever. If so then the problem is between the new ignition switch and the switch at the bottom of the column.

Hope that helps, I've got a 1990 Bronco too. Love it done a lot of work on the mechanicals.

 

Thanks for the reply.
I am familiar with the actuator rod and I am pretty sure that it is not the main reason for the problems. There is some gremlin at work, which could be me, and I have given up the fight. I have given it the "good ole Jr College" try
It is getting towed to the shop tomorrow and I am going to pass it off, to people, that like working on cars.
Cars just aren't my thing....I wish they were, but I have bad memories of metal and oil.
I will post what the problem was.....more than likely, it's me-haha

Thank You all, for the help.
I will return for more help, when needed. And knowing me, it will be sooner, than later.

-dimwit-

 

It's not you. Exact same problem just happened to my truck this morning. Let me know what your mechanic says

 

Not a problem...It will only cost you half of what I have to pay-HAHA
I will let you know, as soon as I know.

-dimwit-

 

ha! I knew that was coming. I already figured it out.
Actuator broke. The part that breaks gets stuck down in its guide channel and keeps the shifter locked. The rod is attached to the horse shoe end of it so it will still move around when the key is turned but not enough to engage the starter. I pulled my sterring wheel off when I got home