Truck Repair: removing key cylinder 1986 F-350 auto trans, key cylinder, diesel auto

Question
prior history- extreem difficulty in removing key used to leave key in and just lock doors. was finally able by manipulating steering wheel and key cylinder position to remove key -occasional difficulty reinserting till the other day when key refused to go in. finally after much ordeal and a good tap w/palm of hand key went in but would not turn to start. did all the usual stuff- steering wheel juggling etc. etc. was suggested that tumblers had slipped inside key cylinder. removed steering wheel but still unable to see solution. can turn outer clyinder casing in counter clockwise 360 only without key inserted  any suggestions GREATLY appreciated. can e-mail direct to nikkiilynn@yahoo.com   or nikkiilynn@netscape.net

1984 F 350  6.9 diesel auto trans 2WD  

Answer
Hi Nikki,
Go to a parts house, and get a replacement lock tumbler, and see if there aren't instructions included.
Even without instructions, you should find that the switch needs to be turned to the "On" position, so a little spring loaded retainer pin can be pushed in, and the lock assembly inserted into the place where it goes.
That same retainer needs to be depressed to remove the old one, which means it needs to be turned to "On".
It is entirely possible that the retainer pin needs to be drilled out if you can't turn the key on.

Hope this helps.
Van