my key won't go into ignition. as if it were wrong key. was hard to turn, not can't do anything. how do you access the ignition switch? Could tumblers have fallen out of alignment?

 

U need a new ignition switch, I think they're about $15... Just pull the stearing wheel, and unbolt everything underneith is........................

I havent had mine apart, but I did on on my 89 toronado... what a bitch, but I got it in a few hours (i'm 17 gimme a break)

Anyways, dont break anything, dont loose anything, and u should be good
I'm sure someone's done it, it's not that hard, but it takes forever if u dunno what ur doing

good luck
~Nate

 

Here's some instructions.

http://www.autozone.com/servlet/UiBr...3d800a9039.jsp

Mine did the same thing, and all I did was get a chisel and hammer, and got behind the chrome part and broke it off. Then you can get in there and push the retaining pin down, and pull the tumbler out. I got my new one from Ford, but I think the local parts stores have them too. I now have two keys which I don't mind, but you could take out the door locks and get them re-keyed to match your new key.

 

I have a 86 150 W/auto, Just changed mine and it was super easy! First, there is a cylinder lock (the part with the key) and there is an ignition switch. They are two separate things. To change the cylinder lock, the key must be in the run position and you have to depress a small button recessed into the steering column housing. When this button in pushed, the whole cylinder lock will slide out. There should be no fighting, it should side out easily, if the key is in run.
The ignition switch is mounted onto the topside of the steering column. Unbolt the top two bolts that hold the steering column to the dashboard. Lower it down so that you can get access to the top of the steering column (three inches or so). Over time the ignition switch will slide down, resulting in you turning the key and nothing happens. If you loosen those bolts that hold the ignition switch, you can slide the switch towards the steering wheel. Tighten them back up, and you should be good to go.

 

I'm having trouble with my ignition also. I tried the adjustment tip in case the switch had dropped out of alignment and that didn't work, but you guys have helped me identify that the lock actuator is the problem in my case.

That saved me having to do the trial and error part buying method -- or worse, giving up and taking it to a shop. Thanks!

 

How do you get the ingnition lock cylinder out of the column if it is not in the run position. I got a new column out of the junk yard that did not have a key, I need to put my old lock cylinder in the new column. 88 f150 2wd 300 six manual trans.

Thanks in advance.

 

Look at Mr Franklins link to auto zone It has the instrucitons for just that, scroll down the page.