ignition actuator problem

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Oct 1, 2004 | 06:23 PM

weavemaster

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Joined: Oct 2004

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ignition actuator problem

I have an '87 F-150 and am replacing a broken ignition actuator. The truck has tilt steering and in order to install the new actuator arm i need to undo the two pivot screws that hold the tilt mechanism in the column. The pivot screws are threaded in with threads inside those. How do I get these off? Are they left handed threads? I can screw a number 6 screw into the pivot screw, but when it tightens it feels like the other threads don't want to break loose. How can I get these screws out without damaging them?

Oct 2, 2004 | 09:10 AM

guzzler96

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Joined: Mar 2004

Posts: 537

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From: Alabama

Hey weavemaster-
I am trying to do the same thing right now. Were you able to get the collar off that holds the lock key cylinder. I have removed the turn signal switch screws, key alarm buzzer screw and there were (3) screws, not (4) that I can find, holding the collar on. I seems like there is something holding it? Seems like I read something about some special tool to remove those pivot pins in my shop manual that I bought with my '90 302. I will reread and post back, but also I think I read some post on here about other methods. Do a forum search by ignition actuator and see what comes back. Will post back shortly?

guzzler96

Oct 2, 2004 | 09:13 AM

guzzler96

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Joined: Mar 2004

Posts: 537

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From: Alabama

You can set up your profile and enter your truck info under signature and when you place the mouse pointer on signature in a post it shows info.
If you like.

guzzler96

Oct 4, 2004 | 09:20 PM

GypsyR

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Joined: Jul 2003

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From: SC

You're halfway there when you put your #6 screw in the pivot pin. Slip a screwdriver under the head of the screw and pop the pivot pin out. Do the same for the other side. Be aware that there is spring pressure on the upper half of the column. When you pull the pivot pins it will jump at you some. Not a whole lot, but keep your face away from the column wile pulling the pins. I find reinstallation easier if you put the steering wheel back on and use your chest to press the column back together. That way you have both hands free to work.
It's worth noting that I don't pull columns all the way out to replace the dreaded actuator. I just take out the upper bolts and let the column rest on the seat. Other folks seem to prefer to completely pull the column then work on it.

Oct 4, 2004 | 09:28 PM

mike93

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Joined: Feb 2004

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From: North Bend Washington

Quote:

Originally Posted by GypsyR

Thanks GypsyR for that input. looks as if i'll be needing that info here real soon too

Oct 5, 2004 | 06:27 AM

guzzler96

Elder User

Joined: Mar 2004

Posts: 537

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From: Alabama

Hey guys -
What about that collar?? I can't find the fourth screw mentioned in the manual, but something is holding the collar on. All I see is like an alignment pin that the collar slides onto. I tapped lightly with a rubber mallet and it did not move, so I quit before I broke something. Is there anything else anyone knows of that could be holding that collar on?????? I appreciate the info on the pivot pins GypsyR.

Thanks,
guzzler96

Nov 21, 2004 | 07:28 PM

lksouth

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Joined: Apr 2004

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From: Charlotte, NC

Binding Ignition Switch

I have an 87 F-150. The key cylinder was hanging up completely upon occasion, and when it did work, it was binding. I bought and installed a new cylinder which no longer hangs up completely, but I still have the binding problem. My key goes through all of the positions but I have to turn it back when engine starts as opposed to it springing back on its own. At this point nothing appears to be broken but something seems to need cleaned and/or lubricated. What all has to be disassembled to fix this problem? Where is the spring mechanism that is supposed to return the key from 'start' to 'run'? I can feel the springing effect but it feels like something is either dirty or needs lubricated. If these steps are outlined somewhere in these forums, please point me in the right direction as I am a novice relative forums, but am pretty good at following directions. Thanks for any assistance you can provide.

Larry