I replaced the rod actuated ignition switch on my truck a few years back. While the rod was disconnected from the switch on top of the column, I rotated the key cylinder.
Since then, in order to turn the engine off, to the key on engine off position, I have to press the button on the left side of the column. I don't know how to get this back in the correct position. My truck is a 1988 F150, custom, no tilt steering, 5 speed manual transmission.

 

What button are you talking about on the left of the steering column? If its a manual trans, there should be a switch on the underside of the steering column that has to be hit in order for the key to turn all the way off, allowing you to remove the key.

 

That's the switch I'm talking about. I should be able to turn the engine off without pushing in on that switch. But I've got it out of position somehow. I should only need to push the switch to remove the key right?

 

The catch on the column is to keep you from turning the key to LOCK while the truck is still rolling. It is not affected by the pushrod to the ig.sw. But both are affected by the ignition actuators, which are known to bend & break.

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Is there a way to fix it without removing the key cylinder? It functions, but eventually I want to put it back to original condition so I can turn the truck off without using the button and use the button only for the lock position. I'm getting ready to read the link right now.

 

Found a solution for this issue today. I had removed the steering column to install a firewall reinforcement plate and after everything was put back together, the key cylinder is positioned correctly again. When I reinstalled the ignition switch on the push rod, I got it in the correct position. I started the truck and when I shut it off, it went to the key on engine off position without using the pushbutton on the column. As much luck as skill I think.