Steering Column Repair: Push start ignition, 88 Ford Bronco, 1988 ford bronco, ford steering column

Question
QUESTION: I drive a 1988 Ford Bronco with a 351W. My key lock cylinder is broken so to start the truck, I jump it through the solenoid and to turn it off, I pull a hose on the left front side of the truck. When my truck sits, I need to pull the battery cable because the AUX is stuck on.

I still need to use the key because I need to unlock the steering column to drive but after I flip it forward, the key can move and spin freely. When it comes time to turn the vehicle off, I simply turn the key back to lock the column, then I pop the hood to pull the hose and the battery cable.

I want to put in a push start switch and run the AUX through another switch so I dont have to continue to pull the battery cable every time I am done driving. I was also looking to put in another switch to kill the engine (as my key lock cylinder doesnt turn it off.) How would I go about putting in these switches?

If I have not been specific enough with the issues, let me know and I can try to explain better.

Thanks,

Sean

ANSWER: Hi Sean:
How about fixing the problem and avoiding all of the other stuff?

It sounds like you broke the ignition actuator
We have recently uploaded pages and a description of how to rebuild the upper portion of a Ford steering column.  They are broken down into step by step detailed instructions on our website. Although the example is for a 1991 Ford Truck, the column is identical to yours (tilt and non tilt use the same housing)
http://www.stolenandrecovered.com/howto/rack04.php

I hope these instructions help you.  If not, please contact me again for more information.
Lastly, if you need parts to repair this column simply follow the links and order whatever you need online (or email us on our "Contact Us / Order Parts" page and we will get back in touch with you personally).

Good luck

Doug

http://www.stolenandrecovered.com


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

QUESTION: I appreciate that link and I will look at it. I personally do not feel comfortable taking that much apart and trying to figure out how to get it back together. It seems to me, (I'm not the expert, but Im just saying) that it would be easier to wire up a few switches than it would be to take the whole column apart and hope I put it back together properly you know?

Answer
Hi Sean:
The problem with doing that, is you still have broken pieces in the column, some of which control the shift lever and column locking pin.  It's certainly your call, but if you do decide to wire it, I can';t help you because I don't have the schematics for a truck that old, sorry.

Whatever you decide, I wish you good luck

Doug