Steering Column Repair: ignition key cylinder removal, ford explorer eddie bauer, explorer eddie bauer

Question
QUESTION: I have a 1991 Ford Explorer, Eddie Bauer Edition.  The ignition key cylinder has become loose and I want to replace it.  Everything still works, just have to wiggle it a little to remove the key.  Here is my problem.  There is suppose to be a hole in the bottom of the key cylinder you push in to remove the it.  My Explorer does not have the hole.  Is it possible to get the key cylinder out another way or do I have to drill the hole.  And if so, where do I drill?

Thanks

ANSWER: Hi Steve:

The hole is there...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 2000 Mustang, the column is identical to yours (tilt and non tilt use the same housing)
http://www.stolenandrecovered.com/howto/fordupper1.php

Here is another page on our website discussing your situation as well.
http://www.stolenandrecovered.com/howto/fordcyl.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 to the Ford Parts pages and select any of the parts you need.  

Feel free to email us on our "Contact Us / Order Parts" page and we will get back in touch with you personally.  We stock and sell all of the parts you will need for this job.
Good luck

Doug

http://www.stolenandrecovered.com


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

QUESTION: I have looked and still do not see the hole.  However, I have not taken off the steering wheel yet.  There appears to be a slot that might lead to the hole but I cannot get a pin into it without taking off the steering wheel.  I'll do that tomorrow.  Thanks again for your help and the pictures.

Answer

ford lock cylinder rel   Steven:
You may need to take off the steering wheel to access the hole, it will similar to the example used in this picture that will help you if that is the case.  Your hole will be visible after the wheel is removed, just inside the bowl about where the white plastic is.  (I'm assuming your column is round and metal, not plastic covers).