Hi folks, looked around couldn't find any other postings.

my parents have the aforementioned car, recently the key barrel failed. They spoke to range ford and were quoted $1400 to get the problem fixed. I haven't seen the barrel yet, but i've been told the problem is there is a metal cap on the backside of the ignition barrel which holds the spring in that holds the barrel internals together. I suggested that a machinist could put a thread on the barrel and make a matching cap, i was wondering, has anyone seen the barrel?

would it be possible for a machinist to fix the problem?

or is there an alternative solution for the problem?

is it difficult to remove the steering column?

i read:


http://www.fordmods.com/post971383.html?hilit=BA%20steering%20column#p971383

Will an AU ignition switch fit easily enough? will there be issues with smartshield? could we fit the mechanical part from the BA into the AU, so the original key will match? if not, is it simply a matter of leaving the new key in the barrel so smartsheild can learn the new code?

thanks folks

if its the problem im thinkin bout, it was only in earlier models (ea-el)
There are tabs which hold the contact board to the barrel. No need for a machinist to fix. Just tap the tabs around tighter. But i've never heard of the BA having this problem.

And no, more is needed to re learn the new barrel. You need WDS or PDS. (ford diagnostics) Takes bout 30 minutes.