Ignition Switch removal
Thread Starter
|
Mountain Pass
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 134
Likes: 7
From: South Alabama
Ignition Switch removal
65 F100
I know it is pushed and turned counterclockwise to release from bezel, but mine turns slightly and won't release. I have raked plenty of hide off trying this and now I'm considering using channel locks. Any ideas before I risk destroying it? I assume the hole in the dash in which the switch goes thru, has a notch preventing the switch from spinning. This is my problem, the switch spins around making cranking the engine a two handed operation. I plan to remedy just as I did the windshield wiper knotch....rework the wallowed-out notch with my mig welder and a small grinder. Worked out great on the wiper. Thanks...Gary
I know it is pushed and turned counterclockwise to release from bezel, but mine turns slightly and won't release. I have raked plenty of hide off trying this and now I'm considering using channel locks. Any ideas before I risk destroying it? I assume the hole in the dash in which the switch goes thru, has a notch preventing the switch from spinning. This is my problem, the switch spins around making cranking the engine a two handed operation. I plan to remedy just as I did the windshield wiper knotch....rework the wallowed-out notch with my mig welder and a small grinder. Worked out great on the wiper. Thanks...Gary
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 6,305
Likes: 18
From: Boulder Creek, Ca
As you are probably aware, need the key to remove the ignition switch. Key cylinder locks the bezel and switch together. With key in accessory position insert paper clip in the small hole in key cylinder and turn to the left. There is a spacer and spring between the bezel and ignition switch. You want to hold the bezel stationary while you turn the ignition switch.The cone shaped spacer has 3 'pig tails' that insert into 3 corresponding notches in the dash. It should not take much pressure to release the switch from the bezel.
Wonder if the key cylinder is seated properly. The cylinder can only go into the housing 1 way. However, on the end of the key cylinder there is an elongated pin that inserts into corresponding slot in the housing. This is where the key is needed both for removing and installing the ignition switch. Need to rotate the cylinder until the pin on the cylinder lines up with the slot in the housing.
Not sure if going over familiar stuff, or any help. Likely other members will post additional info., or suggestions.
good luck,
dave
Wonder if the key cylinder is seated properly. The cylinder can only go into the housing 1 way. However, on the end of the key cylinder there is an elongated pin that inserts into corresponding slot in the housing. This is where the key is needed both for removing and installing the ignition switch. Need to rotate the cylinder until the pin on the cylinder lines up with the slot in the housing.
Not sure if going over familiar stuff, or any help. Likely other members will post additional info., or suggestions.
good luck,
dave
Last edited by daveengelson; May 9, 2004 at 03:11 AM.
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 6,305
Likes: 18
From: Boulder Creek, Ca
I would say yes. You can use a drill bit to remove the cylinder but then have a problem with the metal shavings getting into the switch mechanism. You can disassemble the switch to clean the shavings, but difficult to reassemble. Majority of the Ford parts suppliers carry the switch costing between $15 to $20. You may want to call autozone, have seen the switch in their online catalog for $7, no picture. Would want to tele to confirm proper replacement.
Good luck,
dave
Good luck,
dave
Senior User
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 269
Likes: 0
From: Cleveland/Akron, Ohio
Don't count on Autozone for a switch, I bought the door lock cylinders from them which were supposed to fit, but did not. I didn't have a key to the doors, but I took one of the old cylinders to a locksmith shop, and had new keys made, cheaper than the new cylinders that didn't fit.
Trending Topics
New User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Missouri
Ok I have a 93 Explorer... My ignition key is starting to get jammed in the off position so I am trying to replace the ignition lock cylinder before it quits for the last time... I have tilt steering colum. I am wondering, do I need to remove the steering wheel to change the lock cylinder? I took the shroud off and the pin I am supposed to be pushing to remove the ignition switch is not exposed. Is there any way I can get around removing my wheel and ripping the collum apart? and if not, how do I dissable my air bag?
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
Top 10 Fords at 2026 Carlisle Ford Nationals
Joe Kucinski
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership
Brett Foote
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches
Pouria Savadkouei
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained
Brett Foote
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 6,305
Likes: 18
From: Boulder Creek, Ca
Welcome jcardoza,
Sorry, not familiar with the later model vehicle ignition systems. Believe read in the electrical forum of member who posted simular question. May want to run a search under 'ignition switch' and see if any help. If the search does not help, it may give you an indication where to post the topic if none of the members in this forum can assist.
Good luck,
dave
Sorry, not familiar with the later model vehicle ignition systems. Believe read in the electrical forum of member who posted simular question. May want to run a search under 'ignition switch' and see if any help. If the search does not help, it may give you an indication where to post the topic if none of the members in this forum can assist.
Good luck,
dave
Last edited by daveengelson; May 13, 2004 at 10:48 AM.
Posting Guru
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,671
Likes: 1
From: Eastern Shore, Md.
Dave, I removed my ignition switch without the key. I had to sacrifice the bezel But I used a 1 1/4 hole saw which fit perfectly around the raised area on the bezel and the whole works fell right out.
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 6,305
Likes: 18
From: Boulder Creek, Ca
This is good to know, I'll put it down on list of options in removing the ignition switch. Can't get too much input on alternative ways of getting these trucks on the road. Thanks for the info., hopefully, do not have to deal with ignition switch issue again, but ya never know.
Good luck,
dave
Good luck,
dave
Posting Guru
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 1,310
Likes: 3
From: Illinois
If you have to drill out the switch, disconnect the battery or get rid of the witnesses! Is kinda funny that it started but we had no way to shut it off. Yank the coil wire then yank the battery cable before rolling on floor laughing! 
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Christopher Layton
1961 - 1966 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
11
Sep 22, 2015 07:45 AM
Aeromaster37
1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
2
May 4, 2014 03:20 PM
Herdsman
1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
5
Feb 27, 2002 03:55 PM