Have a 83 f150 with 5.0 my key switch will turn power on but when go to start it won't turn over . I have replaced the sensor but that didn't change anything . Right now I have it on a push bottom start to the celanoid . Where do I look to fix this ?

 

The problem might be in the ignition switch. It's pretty common for them to wear out after twenty years.

The key cylinder itself isn't the ignition switch. It's attached to a rod that runs down the top of the steering column. As you turn the key it moves the rod up or down and that operates the ignition switch.

About 2/3 the way down is the ignition switch. It's mounted up on top of the steering column out of sight. The rod attaches to it. If you reach up in you can feel it.

If you decide to change out the ignition switch please be careful.

Find the right R & R procedure in a shop manual first. It's not that hard to do but there are a couple of places where you can get into a mess if this is your first time doing it.

 

I've already replaced that switch and it wasnt the problem so you think it's the actual key cylinder or something else ?

 

Ok thanks . But I replaced the Ignition switch already so do you think its the actual key cylinder itself ?

 

As far as i know the key cylinder is just a lock.

There's the rod that goes down from the key lock to the ignition switch. That could be messed up.

It's possible that the ignition switch itself is out of adjustment. If i remember right the rod has to go to it's full throw to fire up the starter.

Could be a problem with the electrical connector or a bad wire out in the harness somewhere too.

On the trucks i've had the problem has always had to do with the ignition switch wearing out but on somebody else's truck it might be different.

 

I just did this today...again! You need to pull the steering wheel, drop the collumn, take the turn signal switch out and disassemble the actuator rod so you can replace the pot metal crap that is sheared off in the very center of the column...You HAVE to replace it as there is no good way to reattach pot metal and the design of the thing leavers nothing to reattach once it breaks. I tried unsuccessfully to drill and run a small metal rod in last time i did this and it only lasted a week and i had to redo it anyways. it's not horribly complicated, but it isn't a fun job. everything has to go back EXACTLY right or you short stuff out when you put power back to it. I could not find a donor truck at any of the 4 junkyards i was at today so when the new one comes in in a day or two i'll post some pics if you want...

edit ...here watch this



this is a much better writeup....

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/87...l#post12033568

 

Ok cool and thanks and ya post those pics I'd like to see

 

I'd drop the column first and make sure the actuator rod is moving before you tear into the column...could be out of adjustment as previously stated or a bad ignition switch.

Replaced mine a couple of weeks ago...installed and adjusted the new switch and radio came on but no start. Turned out I got a brand new defective switch...