Steering column swap
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Junior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 54
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From: Sioux Falls, SD
Steering column swap
I am having some issues with the ignition key switch as well as the buttons and plastic etc around the cruise control. The plastic broke out around the CC buttons and then the buttons don't stay in there, you can still use a finger... Both still work, but the ignition is getting to the point where something is going to give out, especially in this brutal cold spell we are experiencing. I have previously replaced the little rack thingy in the column for the key switch, not fun and IIRC I had to bend over for Ford...Sorry if that irritates someone but that's how I feel about dealer only parts, and not that Ford is the only one either, every brand does it.
My question is, can I swap a column out of an 84' two wheel drive into my 86' 4x4? They appear to be identicle columns from what I can see, but I haven't really looked that closely (- temperature weather)...
My question is, can I swap a column out of an 84' two wheel drive into my 86' 4x4? They appear to be identicle columns from what I can see, but I haven't really looked that closely (- temperature weather)...
Thread Starter
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Junior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 54
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From: Sioux Falls, SD
I figured a column with likely half the key cycles would be worth the swap, especially if I already own it. What is your suggestion as an alternative?
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Joined: Jan 2001
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From: Virginia
I don't know about the buttons falling out, haven't heard of much trouble out of them, but as far as the rest of it, just replace the parts to keep it going, and keep your local Ford parts person happy.
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Joined: Nov 2008
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From: Norfolk, VA
I'm not trying to steel this thread, but the previous owner screwed mine up. The CC and turn signals don't work properly; neither does the horn. Basicly all it does is steer the truck. How it passed VA State Inspection is a wonder. (three months 'til I need another inspection) He had a custom chrome three spoke wheel on it when I got and just cut all the wires out. So I would like to find a new colium too. I beats reaching under the dash for my horn botton. What all is needed to get the one out and back in? I have a 1985 F150, AOD, CC.
And, what tools should I take to the Junk yard? Is it just the 4 bolts and un-plug the wires, or is there more?
And, what tools should I take to the Junk yard? Is it just the 4 bolts and un-plug the wires, or is there more?
Last edited by Built_Ford_Tough_757; Jan 17, 2009 at 10:26 AM. Reason: Tools?
Thread Starter
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Junior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 54
Likes: 1
From: Sioux Falls, SD
Built_Ford_Tough_757, sounds like a column swap would be in order with that wiring hack BS, that is a good looking truck, mine is the same color scheme, mine look that good waaay back when I bought it ... Rusty but trusty now.
I pulled the OEM horn button cover off the other day, did some exploratory surgery etc. I DO NOT recommend this. The cruise control button clips are flimsy enough that they would have broken off when new, let alone after 20 years. Same with the little **** with stamped steel nuts on them, the black ones are gonners, the orangish ones are still there. These hold the button cover facia thingy over the buttons, quite a few pieces parts in there really. I would seriously recommed going to a salvage and grabbing the center horn/cc section if you have need for these. A couple phillips screws on the back side and a few wire connectors to unplug.
I pulled the OEM horn button cover off the other day, did some exploratory surgery etc. I DO NOT recommend this. The cruise control button clips are flimsy enough that they would have broken off when new, let alone after 20 years. Same with the little **** with stamped steel nuts on them, the black ones are gonners, the orangish ones are still there. These hold the button cover facia thingy over the buttons, quite a few pieces parts in there really. I would seriously recommed going to a salvage and grabbing the center horn/cc section if you have need for these. A couple phillips screws on the back side and a few wire connectors to unplug.
