Ignition change without key

[Blue70Custom]

I just bought a 70 3/4 ton but the owner didn't have keys. How do I change the ignition without keys?? Thanks in advance!

[1972hiboy]

Its kinda a pain without the key. You would need to remove the entire lock cylinder with ignition switch and replaced both. If you have a old ford key ( prefferably in good shape) what you can do is insert the key into the cylinder and while moderatly holding the key twards the right ( they way you would turn the truck on) slide the key back in forth at a brisk pattern. 8 out of 10 times you and get the lock pins to stick whee theyneed to be and will allow you to turn the ignition switch with that key. but now that i think about it I think you need to turn the switch to the accessory position ( which is to the left )once its turned then you stick a paperclip end into the little hole you see on the cylinder face. that allows you to remove the lock cylinder from the ignition switch,

[sargentrs]

If you can't get it out go ahead n buy an ignition switch with key. Available at your local parts store for around $20.. Then, if you like, complete rekeyed sets of ignition n door lock cylinders come up for sale often. If fordman's around he might have a set for sale. That's where I got mine. Post n the parts wanted section n you might get lucky. Otherwise, eBay (shudder) often has some.

[tbone6]

You could always get your local locksmith to cut you a couple...

[Blue70Custom]

So, I bought a new complete keyed ignition. Will I be able to get the old one off of the dash without a key? Sorry, newbie over here!

[sargentrs]

Yeah, no problem. Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open them across 2 of the indentions on the face of the lock ring and turn counterclockwise. If it won't budge you might have to tap it around with a hammer and screwdriver in one of the slots. If it does move, you might try wiggling the back side of the switch while you turn. Unplug the harness from the back first and be careful as the can get brittle with age and heat.

[Blue70Custom]

Thanks, guys! That much closer to making it a runner. It's been sitting for 10 years. Did my prep work and had it fired first try on a little starting fluid. Next step - fuel system!!

[68 Ford Stepside]

Or you could have done what the guy that stole my truck did.He screwed a body slide hammer into the switch & jerked the lock out of the switch.

[sargentrs]

I don't what the guy that stole my truck used but when I got it back, the lock cylinder was missing and a screwdriver was stuck in it.