I have a 1990 F150 302 Automatic and last night I went to start it and the key switch felt like it "broke loose" from the linkage. From what I have read this is a common problem on these trucks, but mine seems a bit different that the ones I've read about. The key turns to all positions quite easily, and the steering wheel unlocks so I can turn it. All of the electrical seems to function except that turning the key won't engage the starter. I even jumped the solenoid to start it so I could get where I needed to go, but then I discovered the problem with this idea. I can't get the truck out of park because of the lock mechanism.
My question is what part broke? It seems that the rod going to the ignition switch is moving. I have taken the steering wheel off as well as the covers underneath the column. I can see the actuator rod move when I turn the key, but it moves inline and then kind of bows off to the side a bit. I'm not sure if that's what it is supposed to do or not, but it wouldn't seem like it to me. Also, is there any way I can get this thing out of park so that I can get it off the street? We're supposed to get snow here tonight and I really don't won't a parking ticket if I can avoid it.
TIA
Chris