Hello all, I've got a '88 2.9L V6 that's been sitting for about a year now. Last time it was used it would start, the battery was dead when I tried starting it last week and jumping did no good. I bought a new battery and installed it and now when I pull the headlight **** I get lights, however when trying to turn the key in the ignition I get no response. The key doesn't turn forward at all and I can't get the engine to start, any ideas to what may be wrong with it? I considered that the lock cyclinder may be bad as both it and the key are somewhat rough, but I can't figure out how to get the lock cyclinder out without unlocking it which is impossible if the 1 ignition key is messed up, otherwise I could easily put a new one in. Any help in getting this machine running would be greatly appreciated.

-Thanks,
Ray

 

turn your key to the on position, then go under the hood and (now be careful when you do this you will get zarked if you aren't careful) take a screwdriver and jump the two terminals on the starter solenoid this should turn the engine over

 

Danger, he's saying the key wont turn.
There was just a post on this same thing by 1988 Ranger, & he had to drill the thing to get the lock cylinder out. Or you might want to check with a locksmith.