1997 f-350 7.3l

[fordtruckman]

Ok I'll get some pictures up this weekend but I'm going crazy trying to answer this question right now...

I just bought this truck and I went to replace the ignition switch cylinder because the key either got stuck and wouldn't come out or it wouldn't go in. I figured it was the cylinder (and wanted to get new door locks to match it anyway) so I order new cylinders and keys...

Then I put the new cylinder in and it is doing the same thing. Basically, as it seems, the key won't turn back into acc mode... and it won't let the key free because it just just barely in the "off" position.

I've been looking for parts and cannot find any parts for this, what are these pieces called, it seems the cylinders and the switch are easy to find but the long plastic piece with the cogs on it, and the "gear" that turns with the metal and plastic retainer pieces don't exist. That metal retainer piece is broken on mine as well and I want all these pieces replaced...

Hopefully SOMEONE knows what I'm talking about.... I think something is called the tumbler maybe...

ANY help would be great!

[Traveler]

You need to tear the column apart. The actuator lever is all dry and sticky. It needs to come out and clean the old grease off, then put some fresh on and it should be fine.

We have done this on most of out trucks. Just pulling the cylinder out and shooting penetrating oil down in the actuator will help it for now.

[fordtruckman]

Well, I figured it out last night and found out that if i pick up on the gear selector just a little then it releases and works fine. It's like the shift tube is in the wrong position while it's in park and won't let it release smoothly.

I finally found that "ignition actuator" as they call it on jbg but... I'm not sure if that is the problem or if it's with the shift tube.

But for now it works perfectly fine if i just lift a little on the gear selector so.. that's what I'm going to do

Thanks for the help and just for my own info, how would I get to the actuator, it's inside the column. I guess I have to take EVERYTHING apart!