cannot remove key from ignition switch
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Freshman User
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cannot remove key from ignition switch
The key does not come out of the switch of my 1992 F350. The switch operates well : I can start and stop the engine. Do I have to dismantle the steering column to get it out ? Thank you for your help.
Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 9,653
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From: in the adirondack mts
occasionally the steering lock will jam the key, especially if the wheels are under tension. try pulling on the steering wheel against the tension and jiggle the ignition as you pull the key. good luck
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 250
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From: South Western Ontario
change the ignition before it really screws up Im pretty sure you need the key to change the ignition so i would change the ignition before you get mad and bust it I lost the key once on a parts truck and really messed it up when I tried to take the steering colomn apart
Elder User
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 580
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From: Chippewa Falls, WI
If you want to get the lock cylender out look on the bottom of the column. You will find a hole directly under the key. Turn your key to ACC and insert a small punch up in the hole and push up. You will have to wiggle it around a bit but you will eventually be able to pull the lock straight out.
A whole new lock costs about 12 bucks at advance. I just had to change mine a week or so ago for the same problem.
Check a Haynes book if you can't follow, it has full instructions on page 12-8.
A whole new lock costs about 12 bucks at advance. I just had to change mine a week or so ago for the same problem.
Check a Haynes book if you can't follow, it has full instructions on page 12-8.
FTE Legend
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 37,887
Likes: 20
From: North Central Rural Sask.
I agree with hometown, change it while you can, and while you still have the key working in it! A new cylinder isnt very much money either.
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Freshman User
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If I can change the lock without dismantling the steering column, I will sure do it. I will try tomorrow. Thanks everybody.
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Post Fiend
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 11,289
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From: Lakewood, Ohio
turn key to run position with engine off and battery disconnected.
place a 1/8 inch drill in hole in trim shroud under lock cylinder.
depress locking pin while pulling out lock cylinder.
install is reverse and do not turn anything while cylinder is out.
any auto parts store will have a replacement or take it to a lock shop so the key will match the doors.
place a 1/8 inch drill in hole in trim shroud under lock cylinder.
depress locking pin while pulling out lock cylinder.
install is reverse and do not turn anything while cylinder is out.
any auto parts store will have a replacement or take it to a lock shop so the key will match the doors.
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Freshman User
Joined: Nov 2006
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I removed the plastic cover under the steering and the cylinder came out easily by pushing the locking pin. But I did not disconnect the battery and the key was not in the run position. And I turned everything in all directions. The center part of the cylinder even came apart. Two little pins fell but I replaced them in their holes. Out of the truck everything worked fine, the key went in and out easily. I put a little lithium grease on all that, turned the key to the run position, depressed the locking pin and inserted the cylinder. But the key would not turn any direction. Then came the post from quicklook2. !!!!! ?????
Post Fiend
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 11,289
Likes: 6
From: Lakewood, Ohio
undo the battery!!!!
take lock back out. try to turn the ignition with a screwdriver to the run position, put lock back in.
i can't promise anything as you are not supposed to do what you did.
the actuator rod may be bent or broken.
if it was me i would buy another lock cylinder.
take lock back out. try to turn the ignition with a screwdriver to the run position, put lock back in.
i can't promise anything as you are not supposed to do what you did.
the actuator rod may be bent or broken.
if it was me i would buy another lock cylinder.
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Freshman User
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Disconnected battery, removed cylinder, put in run position, inserted. Then reconnected battery and ... all is correct with my old cylinder, the key comes out easily, the engine starts. It even goes to the accessory position which it did not before. Problem solved with your help. Thank you very much. Now I will order a new cylinder.
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Freshman User
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Yes the key comes out easily. While repairing the cylinder, a wire with a strange connector came out of the plastic panel under the steering : the wire is black, 4 to 5 inches long, comes from the harness that feeds the switch, at the end is a weird black plastic part with a metallic flexible terminal. The wire is worn and the connector seems to be broken (see photo if I succeed to post one). I tought it was the connector for the horn but the horn is ok. Could it be part of the system to operate the flashers ?
Post Fiend
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 11,289
Likes: 6
From: Lakewood, Ohio
i think it is the buzzer to warn you the key is in the ignition.
does it buzz if you leave the key in and open dorr? did it used to buzz?
i think you are good to go, and it did not even cost you anything!
does it buzz if you leave the key in and open dorr? did it used to buzz?
i think you are good to go, and it did not even cost you anything!