Explorer Key Falls Out
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 107
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Explorer Key Falls Out
The ignition key in my 94 Explorer falls out even when the engine is running. Ford fixed it once under warranty when it was new, but now I want to keep the $$$ in my pocket and change it out myself. What does a new switch cost (one that will allow me to use my old key) and how hard is it to install? Thanks for the help
'94 4WD Explorer
'92 4WD Ranger
'92 4WD F-150
'94 4WD Explorer
'92 4WD Ranger
'92 4WD F-150
Elder User
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 942
Likes: 0
From: South Texas
Explorer Key Falls Out
This is an easy fix and not very expensive either. The new lock cylinder can be purchased for under $20 at most auto supply stores. Then take it to a locksmith and for around $25, they can rekey the cylinder to match existing keys.
Installation requires removing the steering wheel so a steering wheel/pulley puller is required. Other than that, no special tools needed. First remove the steering wheel then the upper and lower plastic shrouds for the steering column. The release pin for the lock cylinder is hard to find but is under the left side of wheel and runs upwards at about a 45 degree angle. (You may have to move the tilt mechanism up/down to expose the hole) Use a small long shank screwdriver to insert in the hole then push to release the cylinder (key in on position) then pull cylinder out to remove. Piece of cake.
Dialtone
Installation requires removing the steering wheel so a steering wheel/pulley puller is required. Other than that, no special tools needed. First remove the steering wheel then the upper and lower plastic shrouds for the steering column. The release pin for the lock cylinder is hard to find but is under the left side of wheel and runs upwards at about a 45 degree angle. (You may have to move the tilt mechanism up/down to expose the hole) Use a small long shank screwdriver to insert in the hole then push to release the cylinder (key in on position) then pull cylinder out to remove. Piece of cake.
Dialtone
Elder User
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 942
Likes: 0
From: South Texas
Explorer Key Falls Out
> The release pin for the lock cylinder is hard to
>find but is under the left side of wheel and runs upwards at
>about a 45 degree angle.
Correction: The hole for release pin is on the RIGHT side of the wheel shaft.
Sorry
Dialtone
>find but is under the left side of wheel and runs upwards at
>about a 45 degree angle.
Correction: The hole for release pin is on the RIGHT side of the wheel shaft.
Sorry
Dialtone
