Ignition Lock Cylinder

This procedure removes and replaces the ignition lock cylinder on a 1972 Ford F-100 with 302ci V8, including steering column disassembly and lock cylinder extraction.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition lock cylinder × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent for 1972 Ford F-100
• Steering column upper cover screws (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent electrical shorts
3. Remove any steering column covers or trim panels blocking access to the steering column
4. Ensure you have the original ignition key or be prepared for destructive removal if key is lost

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove steering column lower cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the dashboard. Remove the retaining screws securing the lower cover. There are typically 2 screws at the bottom of the cover. Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column and set aside.
2. 2

   Remove steering column upper cover
   Locate the upper steering column cover halves that surround the column. Remove the 3 screws securing the upper cover halves together. Separate the two halves of the upper cover and remove them to expose the ignition lock cylinder housing.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connections
   The ignition lock cylinder on this vehicle is a mechanical component and the electrical ignition switch is a separate unit. No electrical connector at the lock cylinder needs to be disconnected for lock cylinder replacement. If working near the separate ignition switch, disconnect the battery first and note wire routing. Verified detail (1972 Ford F-100 ignition switch is mechanically separate from the lock cylinder, mounted lower on the steering column with a rod linkage connecting them. The lock cylinder itself has no electrical connector.): Note the position of the ignition switch actuator rod that connects the lock cylinder to the ignition switch mounted lower on the column. The electrical connections remain on the ignition switch and do not need to be disconnected for lock cylinder replacement.
4. 4

   Locate lock cylinder retaining pin
   Insert the original key into the ignition lock cylinder. Turn the key to the ACC position (first position clockwise from OFF, before RUN). Look for a small hole or slot in the lock cylinder housing, typically located on the right side or bottom of the housing near the cylinder face. This hole provides access to the retaining pin. Verified detail (The described pin-hole 'turn to RUN and depress pin' removal method is the GM-style lock cylinder procedure. A 1972 F-100 column-mounted or dash-mounted lock cylinder retention method differs by column type; the retaining-pin access location and the required key position should be verified against a Ford service manual for this specific column.): Insert the original key into the ignition lock cylinder. The required key position and retaining-pin/retainer location vary by the specific steering column type used on the 1972 F-100 (fixed vs. tilt column). Consult the Ford service manual for this vehicle to confirm the correct key position and the location of the lock cylinder retainer before proceeding.
5. 5

   Depress retaining pin
   While holding the key in the ACC position, insert a small punch, paperclip, or lock cylinder removal tool into the retaining pin access hole. Push firmly inward to depress the spring-loaded retaining pin. You should feel the pin compress approximately 1/8 inch.
6. 6

   Remove ignition lock cylinder
   While maintaining pressure on the retaining pin with your tool, gently pull the lock cylinder straight out of the housing using the key as a handle. The cylinder should slide out smoothly once the retaining pin is fully depressed. If resistance is encountered, verify the key is in the ACC position and the pin is fully depressed.
7. 7

   Inspect lock cylinder housing
   With the old cylinder removed, inspect the lock cylinder housing bore for debris, corrosion, or damage. Clean the housing with a lint-free cloth. Check that the retaining pin mechanism moves freely and springs back into position when released.
8. 8

   Prepare new lock cylinder
   Insert the new key into the new lock cylinder. Verify the cylinder turns smoothly through all positions (OFF, RUN, START). Turn the key to the ACC position in preparation for installation. Ensure any retaining pin on the new cylinder is properly seated.
9. 9

   Install new lock cylinder
   With the new key in the ACC position, align the lock cylinder with the housing bore. Slide the cylinder straight into the housing while keeping it aligned with the keyway. Push firmly until you hear or feel the retaining pin engage with a distinct click. The cylinder should now be flush with the housing face.
10. 10

    Test lock cylinder operation
    Before reassembly, test the new lock cylinder function. Turn the key through all positions: OFF, RUN, START, and back to OFF. Verify smooth operation in each position. Attempt to gently pull the cylinder out while in the OFF position to confirm the retaining pin is properly engaged.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connections
    Verify that the ignition switch actuator rod is properly engaged with the back of the lock cylinder and moves freely through all key positions.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover halves around the column. Align the cover halves and install the 3 retaining screws, tightening them snugly but not over-torquing plastic threads. Position the lower column cover and install its 2 retaining screws.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery cable
2. Test all ignition key positions with engine off to verify proper electrical function
3. Verify all steering column covers are secure and properly seated
4. Ensure no wiring is pinched between covers or column components

Verification

• Turn the key to the RUN position and verify that the instrument cluster lights illuminate
• Start the engine to confirm the START position functions properly and the engine cranks
• Return key to OFF position and verify it can be removed smoothly
• Test that the steering column lock engages when key is removed (if equipped)
• Verify no dash warning lights indicate electrical issues related to the ignition system

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