1989 Ford F250 Replacing Ignition Switch

1989 FORD F-250
10,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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BOBDOSS28753
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I'm replacing the ignition switch (electrical switch on the column, NOT the key/tumbler part).

The new switch came with a stiff, pre-formed wire[img:316fad3ac1]http://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/450266_formedwire_1.jpg[/img:316fad3ac1].

It doesn't seem to fit anywhere. What's the wire for and how do I use it?
Dec 17, 2009 at 3:21 PM
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BLUELIGHTNIN6
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are you working on the standard style column? i believe that is a tool or component for the tilt style column only.
Dec 17, 2009 at 4:34 PM
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BOBDOSS28753
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I'm working on a tilt-wheel column.

Any guess what the wire is for?
Dec 17, 2009 at 4:46 PM
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BLUELIGHTNIN6
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have you already removed the old switch? it looks similar to the wire bale in the picture below..i'm not sure if thats what it is supposed to be or not? other than that my only thought is that its some sort of special service tool for disassembly of the tilt column. none of my sources say anything about a special service tool for this procedure though..


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/261618_Graphic_240.jpg

Dec 17, 2009 at 4:52 PM
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BOBDOSS28753
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My switch is rectangular, not round like your illustration. Here's a picture from an eBay seller.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/450266_ignitionswitch_1.jpg

FWIW: They show the wire in a completely illogical position, since it shorts one of the blade contacts, and prevents the wiring harness connector from being plugged in. Also, it just doesn't "feel right" in that position.
Dec 17, 2009 at 6:09 PM