quite the odd problem, help?

[Bfhjake]

So as i got off work last night I noticed when i put my key in the ignition of my 96 2.3L ranger that the ignition felt pretty loose and when i tried to start the engine, i got absolutely nothing, it wouldn't turn over or anything no noise except the truck acted like it was in accessory mode and when i put the key into the off position and pulled it out of the ignition everything stayed on radio, dash lights, windshield wipers work, and everything.

So when me and my dad got it home after pulling the key out of the ignition the engine stayed on. Had to stall it to get the engine to turn off and unhook the battery to get the accessories to turn off. Even now when i go outside and hook the battery back up all the accessories come on without the key in the ignition.

Any thoughts, also if this is in the wrong part of the forms, my bad i'm new.

 

[70roadrunner]

i would check the ignition switch. it is near the pedals, mounted on top of the steering column. there is a rod that runs down the top of the column to actuate it. it could be a faulty switch. i just replaced one, only $15 at napa

 

[Bfhjake]

new switch did not fix it, since theres no resistance in the lock cylinder were are thinking of replacing that next.

 

[PanamaExpat]

Did you bother to check to see if the rod that actuates the switch moves back and forth when you turn the key? Maybe the rod has come loose up by the cylinder. I'll bet that is where your problem lies.

Anyhow don't feel bad installing a new ignition switch won't hurt anything.

 

[the_gunslinger]

I'd look into a new cylinder. You said it felt loose when you tred to turn it over. Maybe something gave way.

 

[adsm08]

The lock cylinder turns with the key in and does not turn without the key, correct? It doesn't need a new lock cylinder.

The actuator rod was a very common failure because it is made of cheap aluminum and produces exactly the symptoms you describe.