Hi all,

Looking for some insight and or a "how to". I've been reading and searching the forums as well.

Based on google searches and reading I've done it looks like the Ignition Acuator(s) failed on my 2004 E250 Van.
The van is relatively new to me, bought it used about 8 months ago with 160k on it

What happened:
All was working fine. I stopped to pick up a pizza on the way home. Once back in the van it wouldn't start. The key turned and the lights on the dash displayed like when starting the van but wouldn't turn over. When turning the key off I noticed it turned real easily/ freely. Then after pulling the key I noticed the lights on the dash (those you see just before starting/ turning the engine over) stayed on. No matter what I did things stayed the same.
Eventually I had to have it towed home.

I have pulled the upper and lower steering column cover to try and see whats going on. (and of course removed the Ignition Lock Cylinder as well).
I can't really see much of anything.

How much of the steering column needs to be dissembled to get to the actuator or actuators (there's two right? upper and lower?)

Is it worth replacing the actuators or would I be better off finding and installing a used steering column?
(fwiw my steering column has tilt, but no cruise control).

Thanks!

ps
Also as a side note: on the 20 mile trip home before the above happened the speedometer starting malfunctioning only showing between 45mph (When stopped!) to over 100mph when going about 50mph. I assume this is unrelated to the key issue.

 

Anybody have any insights and/ or advice?

 

I replaced one on a earlier van and I believe most Fords are similar. There should be only one and it will be on the steering column. Here's a video of one being replaced on a Ranger.

 

Thanks but that video is for the Ignition Switch.

I'm looking for info on the Actuator also known as the "Ignition Switch Actuator"
It's the thing that moves the pin (forward and backward) on the Ignition Switch shown in the video.
When you turn the key the Actuator engages (and moves) the pin on the Ignition Switch.