Tilt column ignition lock help?

[Bigeasy16]

Hey folks, I’ve got an 89 super duty 5 speed. I put a new starter in cause my original stayed engaged and got destroyed. Reason being my ignition switch has a tendency to turn to crank position and not automatically return, which SURPRISE! Chews starters. I know the tilt columns have problems, but does anyone know why it’d be sticky and stiff like this?? Me and my dad have had them before and they’ve never been sticky and stiff. Also wondering if anybodys modified the column to get rid of the ignition lock where it won’t give me back my dang keys without pressing a button. Thanks all!
-Ben

 

[Nero]

Don't really have a solution to your issue, but 4 columns later, usually the tilt columns fail in a "key on but no crank" failure mode. So I wouldn't blame it being a tilt column as why your starters are failing.

 

[chillman88]

Also wondering if anybodys modified the column to get rid of the ignition lock where it won’t give me back my dang keys without pressing a button.

I'm not going to be very helpful.... But I believe there's a little tang on the actuator inside the column that would have to be filed off. I don't remember for certain, but that might give you a direction to look?

I know the tilt columns have problems, but does anyone know why it’d be sticky and stiff like this??

I know mine do that when it gets colder outside. I believe it's the old grease breaking down. It wouldn't hurt to tear it apart and clean it up and re-lubricate it if you feel comfortable tearing into it.

 

[Black dawg]

If you disable that lever, get rid of the steering wheel lock at the same time so that somebody doesnt accidentally lock the steering wheel if they have to shut off the engine while driving.

Several moving parts, including the ignition switch, that can get gummed up, or heavy grease was used during assembly. Very light lube is all that is needed on these parts.