Need to replace ignition (87 f250) buddy lost the keys

Does it keep cranking like when first starting or is it running normally and when you turn off the key it just keeps running if it's the first one the solenoid on the fender is N/G the engines running but the starter is still cranking trying to turn the engine over but it's already running///// next if it's running normally after starting no grinding from the starter being engaged like I just described then the ignition switch on the steering column is N/G//// THIS IS NOT THE IGNITION KEY SWITCH THAT YOU PUT THE KEY IN TO START THE TRUCK THIS IS LOCATED DOWN ABOUT HALFWAY BETWEEN THE STEERING WHEEL AND YOUR FEET THERE IS A ROD THAT COMES FROM THE KEY SWITCH WITH THE KEY THAT WHEN YOU TURN THE KEY YOU ARE MOVING THIS ROD WHICH MAKES THE SWITCH MOVE TO THE POSITION TO START THE TRUCK WHEN YOU LET GO THE SPRING INSIDE LET'S THE SWITCH MOVE TO THE RUN POSITION SO WHAT'S WRONG HERE IS THE SWITCH IS NOT OPENING WHEN YOU TURN THE KEY TO THE OFF POSITION IF IT'S A NEW SWITCH YOU HAVE TO ADJUST IT TO GET IT TO SHUT OFF THE RIGHT WAY IF IT'S AN OLD ONE REPLACE IT BUT THIS COULD HAVE BEEN REPLACED BEFORE AND THE FASTENERS LOSSENED AND MIGHT NEED TO BE ADJUSTED AGAIN AND TIGHTENED TO HOLD IT IN PLACE GOOD LUCK! STEPHEN

Take your hand, move it those few inches to the on/off button and turn it off.

check the low voltage connections at the start solonoid.

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/michael_00678fd4800d19c5

PLACE NEW KEY IN THE IGNITION SWITCH.TURN THE IGNITION TO THE ON POSITION 10 MINUTES UNTIL THE SYSTEM LED WILL ILLUMINATE OR FLASH AND SWITCH ITSELF OFF. THEN YOU TURN OFF IGNITION SWITCH WAIT 5 MINUTES THEN SEE IF VECHICLE START UP.IF NOT TRY THIS PROCEDURE TWICE.STILL NO LUCK THE DEALERSHIP HAS TO REPROGRAM NEW KEY TO IMMOBILIZER.

Mine broke 3 times before i by-passed it and installed a push button below the dash. I still have to turn the key, but then i simply push the button to start it. I got tired of replaqcing the ignition.

It is probably better to replace the switch.
If it is anything like my 87 4Runner, the switch is pretty worn out anyway. I just replaced the switch wiring harness in mine.
Get a new switch and a Haynes manual at an auto parts store.
The manual describes how to replace the switch.
WAY too much to list here, but pretty simple really.
Good luck :)

If you go to ebay, under "audi 5000 87 ignition" you will see the full ignition block with new keys, and its only $49, and you can offer less since its best offer. You can check local junk yards, and parts stores, but you may not find the part due to the age, hope that helps

possible ignition issue with your key, or ignition console.
a buddy of mine had the same issue, with a corolla, and when you played with the key like toggling back and forth in the ignition without starting, it would shift into gear try that see what happens.

You need to remove the steering wheel and disassemble the steering column far enough to access the lock cylinder release tab from the inside. If you have already purchased a replacement cylinder, you can locate it quite easily.