Got the ignition cylinder out but obviously not in the start position. How do I get it to the start position to install a new cylinder? And how do you program the new key? Any help is appreciated!

 

If its a 1999 4cyl Ranger then it doesn't need a transponder key

Just V6 Rangers do, 1999 and up

New key cylinder looks like this: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/...,350_QL80_.jpg

That end piece in the close up is what actually turns the gear inside the steering column, seen here: https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.for...e1343a526d.gif
The gear slides a Rod to unlock steering wheel and move the ignition switch, under the steering column, into its 4 positions

Not a Ranger but same idea seen here with cylinder completely removed: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/a...1&d=1544858033

You can turn that "opening" with a screwdriver to put it in ACC, OFF/LOCK, RUN, or START

You want it in RUN to install a new cylinder

If yours doesn't look like that then that end piece may have broke off, pull it out


If you do have a 1999 V6 then you will either need to tow the Ranger to a Locksmith that has Ford Software, or have a mobile locksmith come to the Ranger

Or buy Forscan software for your laptop and the cable and TWO new PATS keys, but you still need locksmith to cut the keys to match your new cylinder

 

Thank you RonD!!! I will work on that. When buying the cylinder they come with keys with or without transponders. Wouldn't this work in conjunction with a locksmith or computer system to reset the brain?

 

There is no "reset" just adding new keys

Yes, if you get a new cylinder with 2 new PATS keys included then a locksmith can use his laptop connected to the Ranger to add them to PATS
Or you can with Forscan on your laptop
Forscan forum has the instructions