Steering Column Repair: 1986 Ford Bronco Full Size Steering Column, push button switch, steering column repair

Question
QUESTION: 1986 Ford Bronco Full Size, Automatic Trans on the Column.

All of a sudden the key moves freely and won't engage the starter.  Also, the shifter seems to be stuck in Park.

I assume I need to stick in a salvage steering column?

I already replace the ignition switch tumbler thing and that did not work.  The switch still moves freely and won't engage the starter.

If I need to replace the column, please provide me detailed steps to remove it.

Thanks so much,
Scott


Ford Truck rack gear   ANSWER: Hi Scott:

The part that broke is called the rack actuator.  I have enclosed a picture of it for your reference.  To replace it, the upper portion of the column needs to be disassembled.  If you are comfortable doing that, you will need to remove the following parts to gain access.
Horn cover & wire
Steering wheel
Turn signal lever and switch (just the upper screws to move it out of the way
Lock cylinder and inner gears (with small snap ring)
Lock housing cover
Ignition actuator gear
Tilt spring
Tilt housing pivot pins
Tilt housing
Then you can use a pick to pull the broken piece out of the column tube and remove both halves of the broken rack.
Reassemble goes exactly the same way, but MAKE SURE YOU ALIGN THE GEARS for the lock properly or you will never get the lock cylinder out again.

The part sells for $16.63 through our company at this website address if you want to tackle this job:
http://stolenandrecovered.com/parts2/rack.php

Good luck

Doug

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks so much Doug.  I have two more quick questions, if you are willing.

I am thinking of by passing this issue by installing a push button switch with a hot wire going from the solenoid.  This should allow me to activate the starter.  I think.

Currently the key will turn to the on position you know, so the radio comes on.  And then I can use a screw driver to short across the solenoid and get her started.

But I would also like to by pass the ignition switch entirely.

I am thinking of installing a toggle switch for this function, kinda like on a 40s model Wileys Jeep.

But I don't know what all functions depend on the key being turned on.  Seems like the electric choke and the radio are the only two items currently dependent on this key being turned on.

Question 1
Can you tell me if this will work and what other issues I might run into?

Question 2
It seems that my gear shift (automatic on the column) is stuck in the PARK position and wont move.  I guess maybe the ignition key would normally unlock this somehow.

Like I said I would like to bypass the ignition key business entirely if possible.  So how can I make the shift lever move independently from the ignition switch?

This ol Bronco is a bucket of rust!  I love her but I just use it so infrequently and barely take it on the road anymore.  So I want to simplify as much as possible so I can keep her going without pouring money into her.

Thanks again,
Scott  

Answer
Hi Scott:
Not a bad thought, but still more work ahead....  If it weren't for the shifter, then you could probably get away with it, but to release the lever you will HAVE to get inside the column and remove the broken piece.  There is no way around that issue, so once you get there, it's cheaper and easier to replace the broken part
Sorry