Steering Column Repair: Ford 96 F series Steering column., shift linkage, torx screws

Question
QUESTION: Can you tell me how to replace the shift tube you talked about in another question for a broken F350 shift linkage? Also, the way that this broke was the guy had trouble getting the vehicle out of park, then he had trouble getting the vehicle out of drive. His linkage broke when he tried to shift too fast out of gear and he claims that he having trouble getting it from drive into park. Is binding like this possible? How do I know if he broke the tube or something else?

ANSWER: The shift tube and shaft are fairly easy to replace.  First remove the top and bottom column covers.  If the lock cylinder is in the way, look under the column for the access hole to release the lock.  In the "On" position you can then press the release pin and remove the lock.  Then the upper cover will come off.  You will need to lower the column down from the mounts.  Be sure to disconnect the shift indicator string before you drop the column or you will break it!
Once the column is lowered and resting on the seat you will be able to see the 6 gold colored 30 torx screws holding the shift tube and shaft in place.  Remove those 6 screws and the accompanying brackets, disconnect the shift cable (down by the floor and brake pedal)and the assembly is in your hands
I hope I've helped you.  If you cannot handle this, feel free to contact my company directly at stolenandrecovered.com and we can rebuild it for you and ship it back.

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

QUESTION: yes, thank you so much. I just want to know if there are any tips to removing those top and bottom covers. I can't believe it but that tube snapped in half, I disconnected the bottom cable and pulled it out.  It looks like the shift lever has a little boot around its base, and I am not sure how to get either of those  covers off. I mean, I will figure it out but knowing before I do it makes things go a little faster.  Will I have to pull the steering wheel? Do I need to worry about the airbag going off if I disconnect the  battery cable?

Thanks

Alex

Answer
The covers just unscrew.  There are 4 phillips screws holding them together...then they just split apart.  As I said, you will need to remove the lock cylinder before yo can get the top cover off.
Once you disconnect the battery you needn't worry about the airbag.  And lastly, no, you don't need to remove the airbag or steering wheel to do this job