hello, i own a 1987 ford f150 4speed with a 302. my key will not unlock the steering column or switch to the on position or anything, could the problem be the key cylinder? or do i have bigger problems? just though i would ask. any help or suggestions would be appreciated.

 

Trying pulling on the wheel to the right while trying to turn the key. You might have to use some strength to do it. I had something similar happen in my 93. Depending on what happened that caused it, it's an anti-theft feature.

 

thank you sog, i pulled on it really hard while trying to turn the key like you suggested but it won't budge, steering wheel is still locked and key won't turn at all as if i am using the wrong key altogether!, guess the only thing to do is get it to a mechanic. i have no idea what caused it to lock up like that, i drove it just fine yesterday, and this morning it locks up. i appreciate your help!

 

Does the key insert fine but just won't turn?

And you drove it fine one day, got out, locked it up I assume ( with remote fob or button on door? ) and next day column is locked?

 

yes the key inserts just fine, i didn't lock it up(door,and it has the buttons) now that i think about it, it drove just fine the day before, now the column is still locked up. been wondering wether someone tampered with it or is it just wear and tear? i ordered a key cylinder from the ford company if all else fails. i really appreciate your help sog!.

 

Well, the only time I'm aware of a wheel locking is if somebody tampers with it. I caused mine to lock when I put a steering wheel cover on mine that was super tight and I was wiggling the wheel back in forth while the truck was off. I got it on eventually but it locked the wheel and key and took me a minute to figure out to insert the key, and try to turn it while tugging on the wheel to the right. Took couple tries but it unlocked it.

It might be a key cylinder but usually those don't just die overnight, anything else I can think of would give indication that something was wearing out before it completely died.

Anybody else on here have any ideas?

Speak up if you have an idea. :-)

 

well, i tapped the key with a pair of pliers while in the ignition and it turned, i ended up putting in a new ignition in. i appreciate your help greatly sog.

 

Cool beans, glad it worked out. How hard was the ignition install?