1. Disconnect the battery. This is to prevent any electrical accidents while you are working.
2. Remove the steering column covers. There are usually two covers, one on the top and one on the bottom of the steering column. To remove them, use a flathead screwdriver to pry them off.
3. Remove the ignition switch mounting screws. There are usually two screws that hold the ignition switch in place. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove them.
4. Pull the ignition switch out of the steering column. Be careful not to drop any of the small parts that may fall out of the switch.
5. Transfer the lock cylinder from the old ignition switch to the new ignition switch. The lock cylinder is the part of the ignition switch that the key goes into. To remove it, use a small flathead screwdriver to pry the retaining clip up and then pull the lock cylinder out. To install it, simply insert it into the new ignition switch and press the retaining clip down.
6. Reinstall the ignition switch and mounting screws. Tighten the screws until they are snug.
7. Reinstall the steering column covers.
8. Reconnect the battery.
That is how you change the ignition on a 1998 F-150 without removing the steering column.
