I have found a bunch of threads on here that describe the issue I’m having, but I have a question I haven’t been able to find an answer to. I have a 1989 F150, the key doesn’t spring back to run from start, and doesn’t turn the engine over. If I jump the starter solenoid with the key in run position it starts. I replaced the ignition switch which did not fix the issue. When the switch is removed the actuator arm moves when I function the key. Would the arm still move if the actuator were bad? Thanks.

 

With a broken actuator, the arm itself will still move, but is going to be prevented from moving all the way forward. The dorman part number for the actuator is 83280. Most part stores seem to keep it on hand.
If you have a manual trans, a broken actuator will allow you to remove the key without hitting the little release trigger on the bottom of the steering column.
Im pretty sure it will allow the key to be removed on an automatic trans with the selector not in park, but im not 100% sure if I remember that one correctly.

 

No, the actuator has nothing to do with removing the key from the cylinder. It only affects what the ig.sw. does as the cylinder is turned.

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