I have an 89 F250. Ever since I bought it the ignition switch would not return to the accessory position on its own. I always had to manually turn it back so the starter would disengage. Most recently, the switch lost its cranking ability to turn the starter. I took the switch out of the column only to find out that there is no spring that causes it to return and therefore; there must be some sort of spring loaded mechanism in the column. I purchaced a new ignition switch and the electronic plug assembly (which I have not even located under the dash yet). Does anyone know what would cause this malfunction or have any advice on how I should proceed? Do I have to take the steering wheel off? For now; I wired a momentary contact (normally open), push buttton switch off the starter solenoid (which is quite unique and works just fine). If it is a big hastle to fix I may just leave it as is.......Thanks

 

I am not sure if there is a difference between the tilt column and non tilt column but the key operates the actuating rod that runs down to the ignition switch. On my particular column, which is a tilt column with auto, the return spring is under all the mess of steering wheel and the turn signal switch. It is kind of a pain to pull all the items to look at but that is where the return spring was located. It is only long enough to push it back from the start postion to the on postion. Yours may have gone missing or simply fallen off.

 

Thanks bro; Is that bar-stool 4WD?. I'm heading out to check into that return spring after I send this post..........

 

FYI the thing that you put your key into is not the ignition switch, it is the ignition lock cylinder. The switch is down on the column close to the firewall, up on top of the column. A rod runs down from the lock cylinder to the switch to activate it.

The "return spring" that you speak of to make the key return from "start" to "run" is built inside the ignition switch.

 

Exactly. You should find it bolted to the steering column under the dash. It is adjustable by sliding it a little up or down the column so adjust the new one before you tighten the bolts.

 

Hey jas88 and Lazy K; I am looking into this now. I will get back to you and let you know how I make out...........Thanks........