ignition switch problem

[pushrod]

i have a 94 explorer and the ignition switch has to turn half way around befor it enguages, could someone tell me what is worn out and how hard it is to fix it, im afraid it is going to stop working

 

[BrooklynBay]

It sounds like you need a new ignition switch. Check WWW.RockAuto.Com or WWW.FastPartsNetwork.Com.

 

[pushrod]

thank you, is it hard to change?

 

[BrooklynBay]

You have to disconnect the battery, and wait at least 10 minutes before you open the column since it has an air bag. You unplug the wiring harness connector, then remove the switch. Check Autozone's website for a step by step procedure.

 

[pushrod]

thanks again you've been verry helpful

 

[geoph1986]

You have to disconnect the battery, and wait at least 10 minutes before you open the column since it has an air bag. You unplug the wiring harness connector, then remove the switch. Check Autozone's website for a step by step procedure.

I don't think he has an airbag, it's a 1994.

Replacing Ignition Lock Cylinder - 7 easy steps.

1. Disconnect battery
2. Make sure battery is disconnected
3. Remove steering column cover (3 screws IIRC)
4. Place key in the ignition and turn it to the "run" position
5. On the underside of the ignition there is a 1/8" dia. hole, push in with a
punch/awl/small screwdriver/etc. This pushes the release pin for the lock
cylinder. (sometimes it takes a bit of pressure to move the pin)
6. Pull cylinder toward passenger side, and remove electrical plug (if it has
one)
7. Install is reverse of removal.

Hope this helps you.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Thanks for posting the instructions. My 93 van has an air bag so I thought that a 94 Explorer would too. I see that you have a 94 Explorer, so you would know if they came with them.

 

[pushrod]

thanks a bunch, i think i can handle that

 

[geoph1986]

Thanks for posting the instructions. My 93 van has an air bag so I thought that a 94 Explorer would too. I see that you have a 94 Explorer, so you would know if they came with them.

There doesn't seem to be an exact year that Ford said "that's it they all get airbags", but that's good advice to wait a while after disconnecting the battery if it has an airbag. Airbags punch pretty hard in an accident, worse is being hit with one when sitting a few inches from it.

thanks a bunch, i think i can handle that

I hope you have no problems, you shouldn't though, it's pretty straight forward. I had a bit of hassle getting the release pin pushed in because it was a bit rusty...brute force prevailed and the pin pushed in. Good luck, but you shouldn't need it.

EDIT: When I replaced mine, it was with a junk yard one (it came with a key) that didn't have the electrical connector on it, the original did though. I don't know what the connector is for, but I haven't experienced any ill effects from not having it plugged in.

 

[Masterd]

I think Ford waited to put airbags until the 95 redesign...I think thats how a few of the models did it anyway.

 

[DJ94]

According to Ford there are two parts of the ignition; the cylinder where the key goes and the ignition switch, which I think has all the wiring to the starter.

Does anyone know if I can replace the ignition switch without pulling the steering wheel?

 

[BrooklynBay]

You should be able to remove the ignition cylinder without a problem.

 

[94Sport5Sp]

Hi:

Just to add additional info. I have a 94 x and it has air bags. I am original owner and purchased it new early in production year. Air bags was listed as standard equipment and not factory option.

PaMnd