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I have an '88 F250 XLT Lariat with a 7.3 IDI Diesel 4Speed w/OD and a Banks Sidewinder Turbo Kit. The other day I went to start the truck and the lock cylinder does not turn far enough to engage the starter motor. The accessory, lock and "on" positions still work, but no start. I dropped the fuse access panel, unbolted the 6 bolts supporting the steering column and removed the starter switch. It works with a screw driver actuating the switch, but the actuating rod that connects the lock cylinder to the switch doesn't seem to have enough spring tension to overcome the spring tension in the switch for the momentary contact for the starter. So, is there a way to "tighten" the slack in that actuator rod, or should I wire in a push button for the starter, that way the key will only serve for unlock, off, and on.... kinda like on 1940's and earlier vehicles.
I know a new lock cylinder/rod assembly is more expensive and most likely a dealer-only part....
If I go the push button switch route, should i wire it to the fenderwell mouted starter solenoid? That would seem like the best thing.
the actuator that broke in the top of the column is only about $13. it takes a few hours to put in.
the first one i did took 5 hours, cause i followed the books directions and took the column out of the truck.
i can now do it in truck, in about 2 hours.
Where did you buy the parts to repair the actuator? I've only checked advance auto parts since there's about one every other mile here in Hampton Roads, VA. The only thing they list on their website is the lock cylinder with key....
It can't be any harder than replacing the windshield wiper-wash/headlight/turn signal/low beam-high beam/hazard nightmare on my wife's `94 Town Car...
It's a pain, but you can do it. If you can do without the truck, I would take the column apart first so you can see what's going on. You need a steering wheel puller, and some snap ring pliers.
Take the steering wheel off, take the turnsignal switch out, and you will see the piece that is broken down inside. It's just a made out of pot metal. To get the new one in, you need to take some short screws and srew them into the pins that the column pivots on(tilt column) and take a claw hammer or pliers and pull the pins. Then take the snap ring off the column, and very carefully push the tilt part down out of the way while you install the new pot metal piece.
You can get the piece from the dealer, just tell them you need the piece that breaks in all Ford trucks, and they will know what you are talking about.
I think the pushbutton sounds like the best idea. Taking the column apart and replacing that rod isnt that expensive, but you have to factor in your time. It MIGHT take you 15 minutes to wire up the button...
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