I am attempting to replace the two upper bearings in my steering column but I have come to a dead end. I have the column lowered to the floor and the lock cylinder removed but the only thing I can't figure out is how to remove the plastic down rod that slides up and down when the lock cylinder is rotated. I have searched the forums for well over an hour and found tons of info ecxept how to remove the plastic rod. This is the very last thing keeping me from accessing the two bearings
This truck is my daily driver and I need to get it back together asap so if anyone has any helpful info please chime in so I can get my steering column back together. I will try and get pics to help describe what i'm talking about.
Thanks, Eli

 

Have you removed the steering column shroud that includes the key switch? I assume the rod you mention is the one that connects the key switch to the ign./start switch on top of the steering column and under the dash. With the shroud off you should be able to disconnect it from the ign. switch actuator or you should be able to do it at the ign./start switch.

 

That is the rod that I'm talking about, but I can't out how to disconnect it from either end. Anyone else have any ideas?

 

Can`t help any further, on my `87F250 the rod was easily disconnected from the ign. switch actuator by driving out a small pin. Can you not just remove the ign./start switch from the column and let it hang on the rod?

 

Ok, I figured it out. On my truck you simply put the lock cylinder back in, put the key in and roll the switch backwards until it runs off the end. Unfortunately the shaft is worn to much to hold the bearings properly so now i'm trying to figure out what year truck columns will fit. Thank you for your help. -Eli

 

I have a '96 F-250 and I recently had to replace my steering column. Out of F-series trucks '93 to '96 will interchange. When I finally found one for my truck it was in an '89 Bronco. When looking for a replacement column make sure the steering wheel matches yours.

And do NOT let your local Ford parts and service dealer tell you that it matters whether or not you have the overdrive button on the shifter. It does not. If your truck has it and the replacement does not all you have to do is unbolt the wiring connector from the column and put yours in its place. That is what I found out as I was replacing my column.

Good luck and start searching quick. These columns seem to be a hot item. At least within 600 miles of where I live anyway.