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Post by michihunter on Feb 25, 2006 14:55:36 GMT -5
I have a 92 Ford Aerostar that has multiple problems with the steering column. It seems that the bar that is used to allow for shifting after depressing the brake keeps on breaking on me. This will be the third replacement. Does anyone know if there is an upgrade or something else that can be done to keep this from continually happening? It can get quite frustrating due to the cost of continually repairing something that is obviously a problem with the material Ford used in this application.
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Post by lockmaster on Feb 25, 2006 15:42:41 GMT -5
Ted, did you install the replacement or did the dealer/mechanic? This problem is usually no more than mis-adjustment of the cable. If the cable connecting the console shifter mechanism to the ignition lock is improperly adjusted and you apply pressure to the release button on the shift with the key in the locked position, the connecting pin in the shifter can break and if this happens, park-lock will not work. If the pin gets broken, your vehicle can roll if the emergency brake is not set. You should check the repair manual for the proper adjustment. It will also tell you where the adjustment is and how to make it. I hope this helps you some.
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Post by michihunter on Feb 25, 2006 15:54:09 GMT -5
There's a long hollow shaft that has a spring mechanism in it that will not allow you to shift unless the brake is depressed. The hollow shaft keeps breaking in the middle. It's broke 3 times all in the same place. The local junkyards are practically out of this part due to the number of people requesting it. Remember LM, I live in Detroit where junkyards are almost as abundant as gas stations!! This is a recurring problem and it's not due to improper install. It's an inferior part. I'm wondering if anyone knows if the problem was fixed in later years and if so, are they compatible with a 92.
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Post by lockmaster on Feb 25, 2006 16:05:55 GMT -5
Sorry buddy, I misunderstood. I didn't know it was the tube breaking... , I just assumed it was the pin cause that's a problem with those. You are right, it's the material used. I don't know of any they came out with that has had that improved on. You would think they would have made the tube a little heavier considering the strain it suffers. Good luck!!
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Post by michihunter on Feb 25, 2006 16:18:04 GMT -5
I agree. But thanks for the try anyway LM!!
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Post by lockmaster on Feb 25, 2006 17:36:02 GMT -5
Hey Ted... I don't know on your particular one how big that tube is or how much "room" you have but I have seen guys reinforce or repair throttle cable tubes with an industrial strength (PC7) epoxy..the kind that is gray when you mix it. If you have room where the tube is breaking, you can spread a layer (about 1/8") on the tube and let it dry over night. It may give just enough to keep it from breaking in the future.
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Post by michihunter on Feb 25, 2006 21:07:08 GMT -5
It seems to be a lead type material LM. I think you may be on to something there though. I'll have to put my thinking cap on and give it some thought though. It's actually inside the column itself though and that means getting it out and repairing. What I'm thinking of though is reinforcing a new one to keep it from breaking at all. Thanks.
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Post by Rookie_Rover on Feb 27, 2006 7:55:52 GMT -5
I would say any competent machinist should be able to whip a new tube up for cheap, and if it's made out of carbon steel, you could park the entire vehicle on it and it wouldn't break.
I would say that Hot or Cold Rolled steel would work, but anything with a 40-55 Rockwell hardness ought to work much better.
You don't have to know what I am talking about, but if the machinist you take it to doesn't, I'd slowly back away and go elsewhere.
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Post by michihunter on Feb 27, 2006 9:41:29 GMT -5
Thanks for the tip TJ!!
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Post by intruder on Mar 1, 2006 18:35:49 GMT -5
;D I know how to fix it Michi buy a chevy!!! ;D LOL!!!
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Post by teambateau on Mar 1, 2006 23:16:46 GMT -5
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Post by michihunter on Mar 9, 2006 16:25:50 GMT -5
I like my trucks to run Kasey!!
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Post by intruder on Mar 10, 2006 11:25:15 GMT -5
LOL... I like mine to drive ;D Kinda funny lookin when them fords get up and start runnin away from ya ;D
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Post by michihunter on Mar 12, 2006 23:40:27 GMT -5
LOL ;D ;D
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Post by kg5388 on Mar 22, 2006 22:52:43 GMT -5
;D I know how to fix it Michi buy a chevy!!! ;D LOL!!! at least that would allow you to park in the handicap spots ;D
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Post by michihunter on Mar 22, 2006 23:04:28 GMT -5
Ba da bing!! ;D ;D
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Post by kg5388 on Mar 22, 2006 23:11:55 GMT -5
have you thought about going to the hardware store and find a metal rod to fit the hole or maybe goin to the auto parts house and see if a push rod may fit i don't know how long it needs to be but you can cut one off if its to long
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Post by michihunter on Mar 22, 2006 23:41:54 GMT -5
Its more than just a shaft Kev. There are mechanical components attached to it. There's a lever and spring attachment as well as a arm that is used to hook the shift cable to.
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