Quick fix - ignition switch (88 f-250 7.3 diesel)

Just a quick video showing my "fix" for the stupid key assembly that broke on me.
At a glance it doesn't even look too bad!

[@ICEONEMUSIC]

Wonderful! No more jumping from under the hood all day! Thanks so much.

[@kenibnanak5554]

It is an annoyance Ford 'saved money' on their end by using pot metal and a lousy design.

[@josephbethley5241]

Simple and I love it no need to put and actuator its a work truck when those engine ever go out it goes to the junk yard anyways so save that money

[@MacRobbSimpson]

Well... Maybe. I, though, would probably just slap another used motor in it - I have plenty to choose from, and it's only a weekend's job to swap. In this truck's case, though, the motor will probably outlast the rest of the truck.

[@nameinvalid8799]

Okay I hope I ask this in a way you understand, when you cut the metal piece, did you cut it with the key in the on position or the off position? Or does it not matter?

[@MacRobbSimpson]

Probably on position? the further up you cut it, the more tab you can use for your fingers. It's really just making the rod accessible to you.

[@bruceshearer1719]

Great post...thank you

[@hmdwn]

Why not just fix it correctly?

[@MacRobbSimpson]

Mainly because I had done it less than a year before, well under 100 cranks between a new piece and it breaking again. I got fed up with it and did this. Then, recently I parked it for a few months, come back to start it and find that the ignition switch itself literally broke - the ignition wouldn't stay on without pressure holding it 'on'. Plugged a new(used) switch in, and didn't bother to even mount it back in place. Right now, the switch is just hanging down from the column, and I'm using a 90-degree pick tool to actuate it. Meh. I'll fix it when it's not freezing out. (Note: it's not my DD, which is why it isn't getting any love. If I needed it to get to work, you bet I'd fix that right then and there.)

[@hmdwn]

i have a 1988 XLT Lariat Supercab 4x4 I special ordered and was delivered new in late 1987. Owned it ever since and is my daily driver. 227,000 miles still looks new in & out (for the most part) The Pot metal piece that breaks in the steering Column is called the 'Actuator''. Not understanding why your replacement piece only lasted "well under 100 cranks" (dud you lube all moving parts?) I replaced the original Actuator back in 2010, not fun but at least it's a sit in the Cab job. I did the math, owning my Truck since new and figuring about 4-5 starts a day over 30 years that's aprox 54,000 cranks on the Key, Actuator, Ignition switch and Starter. (starter is original) Today, I have to replace the Ignition Switch mounted on the steering column (it' still functions but I can tell it's not 100% as it should be-turning the Key further to engage Starter) not a difficult job but not easy to contort myself up under the dash with a very bad back. These are great Trucks with one of the most 'reliable' Diesels EVER. My truck gets the love it deserves. Someday soon it will be for sale (disgusted with the price of diesel fuel) hopefully the second owner will appreciate the care I've given her and they too will keep it in original condition.

[@bldontmatter5319]

​@@hmdwn did you end up selling