Today I put my key in the cylinder and it is really stiff, and won't turn, like the cylinder isn't recognizing the key. About 1 in 20 times it goes in normal and starts the truck. Tried putting some silicon spray on the key to lube the ignition but it didn't help.

Question is what else can I try, and can I swap over a new ignition cylinder without having it be programmed by a dealer?

 

is your wheel turned. Next time it happens jiggle the steering wheel while trying to turn the key

 

try moving the shifter a little beyond park and then remove the key

 

Yeah I tried all those things...but the issue seems to be with the tumblers in the cylinder. The key isn't going in right.

 

How many keys do you have for the truck? If you have 2 you can program extras yourself. One key, you're off to Ford. BTW, graphite is the preferred lock lubricant. Pull your switch cylinder, clean it with electrical contact cleaner, lube iy up, put it back and it may work.

 

Only have one key.

 

Check with a locksmith.....When I bought my truck it only had one key. Locksmith erased all old keys, reprogrammed the one I had and made and programmed a new key charged me $75 Dealer wanted $125

ETA:
Locksmith did it in about 10 mins....Dealer said it would be all day to get it done