I bought my 98 ranger 2 months ago and when I bought it the key was stuck in the tumbler. I left it go because it’s just a work truck and it would start just fine. Key ended up coming out while in the off position and when I turned the key back forward truck wouldn’t start and would have aux. power while in off position and key out. Replaced the lock cylinder and still having the same issue and still won’t start. No idea where to go from here, any help is greatly appreciated.

 

Welcome to the forum

Reads like the ignition switch, under the steering column above brake pedal, is not being move to correct position, maybe why the previous owner broke the key cylinder

The key cylinder turns a gear on the back side, that gear slides a ROD inside the steering column, that ROD slides the ignition switch into its 4 positions, ACC OFF RUN START

Simplified drawing of how it works: https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.for...e1343a526d.gif


I would pull out the ignition switch and manually move it to its 4 positions to make sure it works

Then feel the end of actuator rod to see it its moving like it should when you turn the key
To fix an issue with actuator rod or gear you have to disassemble the whole steering column