1990 Ford Ranger Ignition Removal

by John Stevens J.D.

The 1990 Ford Ranger pickup truck is fitted with an ignition switch mounted against the steering column. The switch has wiring that attaches to the starter motor via a solenoid. When actuated, the switch directs the solenoid to send power to the starter motor. For this reason, a starting problem can sometimes be traced to a faulty ignition switch. The switch is a sealed unit that cannot be repaired; however, it can be replaced with a new one. The first step is to remove the existing switch, which is a straightforward project.

Step 1

Open the hood and disconnect the ground or negative cable from the battery with a wrench.

Step 2

Remove the screws holding the steering wheel pad to the steering wheel using a screwdriver. Then, lift the pad away from the steering wheel to access the horn wires and the steering wheel retaining nut. You can access the screws from the back of the steering wheel.

Step 3

Pull the metal tips at the ends of the horn wires off their terminals to free the steering wheel pad.

Step 4

Remove the steering wheel bolt from the center of the steering wheel shaft with a wrench.

Step 5

Pull the steering wheel off the steering column with a puller kit. Follow the instructions included with the kit, as not all pullers are the same.

Step 6

Remove the shroud that conceals the bottom of the steering column by removing the shroud's screws with a screwdriver and pulling the shroud away to reveal the ignition switch wires.