OEM 2000 Ford F-150 Ignition Lock Cylinder

2000 Ford F-150 Ignition Lock Cylinder Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: What Precautions Should Be Taken When Servicing a Non-Functional Ignition Lock Cylinder with an Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) on 2000 Ford F-150?

  A: The service and repair of non-functional ignition switch lock cylinders needs safety glasses for all vehicles with air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) to prevent deployment-related injuries. When dealing with a live air bag module you should hold it by its air bag side with the trim cover facing opposite your body and always maintain the trim cover pointing upward. Wash your hands in soap water immediately after deployment to eliminate sodium hydroxide residue which can cause skin irritation. The connectors on air bag modules must not be probed because this could cause accidental deployment while the installer should replace air bag modules that have discolored or damaged trim covers instead of attempting to repaint them. To keep SRS systems operational the vehicle sensors need correct mounting and during an accident inspect all sensor connectors to replace any damaged components even if air bags did not deploy. Front and side air bag components should only be serviced after the back up power supply drains by disconnecting the battery ground cable and using at least one minute of wait time and additionally disconnecting any equipped auxiliary batteries and power supplies. The first step includes disconnecting the battery ground cable followed by steering wheel removal and cap removal from the ignition switch lock cylinder before drilling out the retaining pin with a 1/8 inch diameter drill bit and drilling the 3/8 inch diameter drill through the middle of the ignition lock key slot until the cylinder becomes loose. Prevent waste of the old lock cylinder by disposing of it alongside its shavings before pulling out the bearing retainers and bearing and gear while confirming that all steering column shavings are eliminated. Also inspect for any damage. You must install a brand new ignition switch lock cylinder through the reverse direction of removal steps before testing the ignition lock function and running the air bag system proof.