Ignition problem

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Jan 3, 2006 | 11:08 AM

hunt2803

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Ignition problem

I have a 1986 F-150. Some time ago the ignition lock became extremely tight then spun. Thinking it was the lock cylinder I replaced it yesterday. After putting the steering wheel back on, the new lock just spun like the old one. I tore into the steering column a little further and found a metal peice in 2. From what I can tell it engages the engine when the key is turned to on and disengages it when turned to off. My basic question is this. Is there any way to bypass the mechanical stuff in the steering column and hot wire a switch in to turn on and off my truck. I have limited money, going through a divorce and need to get this truck operational. A junk yard is not an option at this point. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

chris

Jan 3, 2006 | 11:11 AM

tjc transport

i ain't rite

Joined: Mar 2005

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From: Marlboro Mental Hospital.

that actuator cam is only about $12 at the dealer, and takes around 4 hours to put in with patience

Jan 3, 2006 | 06:32 PM

Beast12

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From: Sarnia, Ontario, CANADA!

Hi and welcome to FTE! Be sure to read this to help you around this site: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...d.php?t=300691 There are also State, Provincial and International Chapters located near the bottom of the main forum page.

We are glad to have you. Hope you enjoy the site. Check out the various forums. Lots of great info for you.

Thread moved to 80-86 Ford trucks forum.

See ya on the boards!

-Matt

Jan 3, 2006 | 06:38 PM

havi

I'll have the Roast Duck

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From: Northshore, MN

I used a regular household lightswitch on my 79 lebaron. Wired it directly to the starter, and joined the original wires together in the dash. one flick of the switch and the engine cranked over and ran. But you have to turn the switch off right away, cuz the starter is still engaging until you do. I don't recommend doing this, but I know financial difficulties. I'd prefer to get the right part.

P.S. that lightswitch won't care what gear you're in either so beware. It ain't safe!

Last edited by havi; Jan 3, 2006 at 06:42 PM.

Jan 4, 2006 | 06:45 PM

hunt2803

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Thanks and new problem

First of all let me say thanks to all how posted suggestions on how to repair my ingition problem. The ultimate culprit was the ignition actuator arm. My new problem however is this. I purchased a new actuator arm. However how do I put the new one in without beating it in. I tried contacting the dealer where I purchased the part and they were of no help. I don't mind doing the work I just want to know how. Any diagrams or advice on how to do it would be great at this point before I rip out the column.

chris

Jan 4, 2006 | 06:52 PM

Mil1ion

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It's fairly simple.

I think you can get at it by just lowering the column, you shouldn't have to remove it.

Just a suggestion

This post should have been added to your original post to keep it all the information together.
Perhaps a moderator will merge it to the other one ?

Last edited by Mil1ion; Jan 4, 2006 at 06:59 PM.

Jan 5, 2006 | 04:31 AM

tjc transport

i ain't rite

Joined: Mar 2005

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From: Marlboro Mental Hospital.

a shop manual is real helpful here, but basically you remove the steering wheel, and keep taking the parts off under the wheel till you get to the cam. it is not that hard if you are mechanically inclined. just use patience and common sense.the first time i did it, it took around 5 hours, but i pulled and rebuilt the whole column . after the first one, i can now do it in 2 hours.