Just bought a pretty 1988 f-150 and the seller showed me that I have to use pliers to push down an actuator rod to start the motor. I liked the truck so much that I figured I'd buy it and fix it myself. How hard of a job is this? Am I using the right terminology when I say 'actuator rod'?

Thanks.

 

This is from a 90 factory book. Should be the same.

 

Cool, thanks so much!

Where did you get that book, if I may ask? I just ordered the Chilton and the Haynes, but my past experience with those manuals on other cars makes me wonder if there is something better...

 

If you have a tilt column you will need to replace the steering column lock actuator, they break and makes it so you have to use pliers. Umm it's not a job for a DIY'er and does require some special tools as you have to take the column most of the way apart.

 

Just messing around on YouTube the other night, I came across a video for ignition switch repair. It didn't fully cover the actuator rod and tilt column, but it was informative. I've never taken one apart, but the video I watched really helped explain the information I've always just read about on here.

I'm going to need a new keyswitch soon. My key works, but it will chime as though the key is in, even after taking the key out. I just have to mess with it to shut it up, sometimes.

 

Ebay... I have a full set including wire schematics and emission diagnosis. They have paid for themselves many times over.

 

Yours is an easy fix, pull the tumbler out and remove the little plastic tab on the column that's broken and tape the wire back where it won't touch ground. You won't have the key in/door open warning anymore, to fix it would require you to remove the plastic shroud and unplug it from the harness, replace in reverse order.

Most people I know just cut the wire and tape it out of the way,

 

Thanks for the info!

 

This is a real bummer. What special tools? Could I just replace the whole steering column?

 

Found this instructions. Going to attempt. Wish me luck.

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/87...-actuator.html