Steering Column Repair: lock cylinder/steering column, ford service manual, ford mustang

Question
I have a 1995 Ford Mustang.  The other day my ignition lock cylinder failed.  The key roatates freely.  I can start the car but there is no spring-back to the run position.  I can not shut off the car using the key.  Also, the steering wheel will not lock.  I have replaced the ignition lock cylinder but I still have the same problem.  I can see there is a yellow plastic shaft with a rectangular cross-section that moves fore and aft in the steering column when I rotate the key.  I cannot find this part in my Chilton repair manual.  I think it may have something to do with the problem. Can you help me with this problem?

Answer
Hi,

The problem you have is quite common in steering columns not to just single out Fords.
It sounds like you need what is called the sector gear, rack and ignition actuator rod. These are dealer parts and if you have never repaired this problem it's not something for the novice because there are specialty tools and knowledge of this column that is needed.
You can go to your library and get a Ford Service manual that will describe the operation, but unfortunately very few are specialized in this repair and you will probably need the dealer to do it. If you get a junkyard column, there is a good possibility that will fail.

Good Luck!