Steering Wheel Locked

[sacoward]

I have a 96 Ranger (manual) and the steering wheel has locked up. I have had the truck 12-13 years and this has happened numerous times, but usually with a little back and forth while turning the key it will unlock.

Unfortunately tonight with about 30 minutes of back and forth (to the point of feeling like I was about to break the steering column) I could not get it to unlock. Are there any tricks to getting it unlocked? Are there anyways to manually unlock it?

Thanks!

 

[zekew64]

I would try and pull the steering wheel (not sure which direction) away from the lock cylinder. Once it feels like that the steering wheel has separated slightly, turn the key in the lock cylinder. It should unlock.

By the way, it looks like you'll have to replace the lock cylinder to fix the problem, if you've had this problem in the past. It sounds like either the tumblers are going, or the rotation point for the cylinder itself has become corroded.

Alternatively, you could raise both front wheels off of the ground and then try and unlock your column. That would take the weight off of the steering/suspension system to allow for an easier time to turn your steering wheel.

 

[rangerbum]

I've had an issue where the teeth on my key were all worn to the point that they didn't engage the tumbler properly, and the wheel would lock. Not saying that's your problem but its worth taking a look. If you have a spare key try that one.

 

[4b316]

Are you saying the key won't turn?Or the steering wheel won't turn with the key on?

 

[WiscoRanger]

ive had this problem too. finally got it to release after almost an hr. key and tumblers are most likely worn out. my keys broken off in the ignition now so i dont really have the problem anymore