QuestionQUESTION: We thought the key ignition switch was broke.Key would turn all the way over dash lights came on but wouldn't crank.You could crank from solenoid though.Replaced switch and actuator rod.Now it cranks fine but will not come out of gear once I screw the gear shifter in.I can take it out of gear by turning the thing just not once the shifter is in.What do you suggest I did wrong or could try?
Broken Rack Actuator P
ANSWER: Hi Shannon:
It sounds like the part that broke is the ignition rack actuator. It's a cast piece of metal that pushes the rod when you rotate the lock cylinder. The reason you cannot shift it is because the long piece that extends into the tube has broken inside the column and is not moving to release the shifter when you turn the key. When they break like that, nothing inside is moving where it should anymore
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/instruct.php#A2
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
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QUESTION: Doug, Thanks very much,I am afraid I didn't ask my question correctly.We have already removed the broken pieces and replaced the ignition rack actuator and now we are having the problem of it not coming out of park.Without the shifter in place you can get it to come out by turning I guess it would be called the housing.Once the shifters in it just wont come out.Thanks we are truly ready to take it to the scrap yard.LOL
AnswerHi Shannon,
Sorry for the misunderstanding. I can only guess that the tip of the shifter is not going into the proper position when you insert the lever into the housing. Try to insert it in a gear other than Park and see if that helps. Neutral has the largest opening, so attempt to install the lever with the truck in neutral.
That's all I can think of. It sounds like you did everything else
correct.
Doug
