QuestionKey starts engine just fine. Turn it back and take out key, engine still running. Not lock and tumbler, cause I already tried that. Something after the tumbler probably. I'm not familiar with steering columns and how the key turns off the engine. I suppose maybe an electronic problem or a problem with the shaft the the tumbler actually goes into? Any ideas on where to look?
Answer
ford frack actuator
OK...Hi James
It sounds like the white plastic "Rack actuator" gear has broken. There is a small pin on the end that falls out. It's a very common problem but requires a bit of work and experience to replace it. It is buried inside the column. The steering wheel, both covers, the turn signal switch, the lock cylinder, the actuator gears inside the lock housing, the upper bearing retainers, the tilt housing (tilt and non-tilt columns use the same housing) all have to come apart to access this rack gear. Once it's apart, the new rack needs to be shaved slightly to fit in properly. Then during assembly, the gears for the lock cylinder need to be realigned properly to hit all the key positions. If you miss by 1 tooth, it is very difficult to get the lock cylinder out again to correct it without breaking it. I would not recommend doing this one yourself unless you're confident in your skills.
A good repair shop should charge you about 2 hours labor to do it and the part costs about $17.00
The part has to come from Ford (or us) only, (not a parts store) & the part # is F2DZ 3E723 A.
I hope this helps you
As we are limited to the content and can only post 1 photo, if you want to continue with this dialog, need more photos of the housing removed, or want to order the part, please contact me through our company website at:
http://www.stolenandrecovered.com
Good luck
Doug
