How do you adjust the rod and is that just another word for the steering lock because an earlier reply told me to adjust that but I don't know how so if someone could tell me that would be great.
no... the ignition switch is located on the top side of the steering column under the dash. a rod goes from the tumbler to the switch. the bolts that hold the switch to the column are the adjustment bolts.
I have the new key in and it still has the same problem. I have disconnected the rod that goes to the steering switch all together and it still does the same thing, the key won't turn all the way to the lock or accessory position. I don't know why or where to go next. It feels like it is hanging up on something else but I don't know what. I would like to be able to get to more of the key assembly but I don't know how to get the cover off where the column shift would go into the steering column (if I had a column shit). If someone could help me out and tell me where I should go next that would be great. Thanks.
Something is wrong with column, seems you have same symptom as if lever was not in park(which is only position key can be removed)... Have you checked linkage to transmission?? Woah!! Lets backup... You have a floor shift??? There is a rod from trans that prevents key from turning to lock until floor shifter is in park...
You have replaced the tumbler part of the ignition. The switch is further down the column and the two connect by a rod.
If I could get the cover off that the rod goes under to the top of the column I could probably find the problem but I don't know how to get it off.
There is a metal clip that slides into tabs on the bottom of the plastic cover. The column wiring runs through there also, so it can be a pain to slide it off.
My mom's Firebird had a similar issue and it was a pain to figure out but here it is. The pin that locks the steering wheel had built up enough crap over the years that one day when she started the car it was all over, it would not move out to lock the wheel. The byproduct of that mishap is the lock cylinder could not fully rotate to the true off position. Being a GM it wasn't an issue, the key would come out no matter what position it was in! The basic design is the same between Ford and GM, I would take a look at that.
It comes off from top so you must remove signal light switch and two ¼" nuts that are under it... Upper section will slide upward, then lower section... Note there are two bolts that locate into slots in column, when reassembling you must start the ¼" nuts on bolts before the upper section is reinstalled... There should be exploded views on I-Net, Mustang, Torino etc used exact same assembly...
