Starting Problem - Ignition Lock Cylinder?

First off this is an awesome forum. Thanks to the informative people here I have managed to drive by my mechanic giving him the finger on a few occasions (idle air control valve and blend actuator door were the most recent reasons to say F you and your quotes)

Anyway, I have a 2000 Windstar that has a starting problem. When I turn the key I get absolutely nothing. This started as a intermittent issue that progressively, at first I had two or three turns of the key with no response. Now there is nothing. The only to start is to slowly (and I mean methodically) turn the key and after a few attempts the van starts and everything is fine.

I am thinking about replacing the ignition lock cylinder simply because the way the key is turned seems to make a difference. I have not yet checked to see if starting in Neutral makes a difference (I am not the one driving it).

I would appreciate any advice. Thanks

First off this is an awesome forum. Thanks to the informative people here I have managed to drive by my mechanic giving him the finger on a few occasions (idle air control valve and blend actuator door were the most recent reasons to say F you and your quotes)

Anyway, I have a 2000 Windstar that has a starting problem. When I turn the key I get absolutely nothing. This started as a intermittent issue that progressively, at first I had two or three turns of the key with no response. Now there is nothing. The only to start is to slowly (and I mean methodically) turn the key and after a few attempts the van starts and everything is fine.

I am thinking about replacing the ignition lock cylinder simply because the way the key is turned seems to make a difference. I have not yet checked to see if starting in Neutral makes a difference (I am not the one driving it).

I would appreciate any advice. Thanks

Have you cleaned battery cable ends and posts??? Checked for 12V at the starter??

Doing an inspection/cleaning/lubrication on the key tumbler is not a bad idea. Understand what's involved though ... the key tumbler is connected to a long sliding rod actuator that extends down the steering column to the "switch box". I've had to lube my system up ... and replace the switch box. The key worked much easier after this ... and my start problem was eliminated.

But there are other things that might be your actual problem. I still recommend inspecting under the steering column cover just for good maintenance..

I've checked for 12v at the starter. The battery and cables look clean (I can check more thoroughly at battery and starter)

I haven't had any problems turning the key. The key turns smoothly, there are just frequent occasions where there is no response. I immediately assumed the problem was at the tumbler. I will try to inspect all the way to the switch box.