How to Repair the Power Door Lock on a 1996 F-350

The last model year of the ninth generation of Ford's F-series was 1996. The F-350, known as the workhorse of the light duty trucks, also offered several creature comforts, including power seats, power windows and power locks for those who used the truck as a rolling office or for more recreational pursuits. The power lock system consists of a door lock, wiring harness and door lock actuator. When determining the failed part in your lock system, start with the easiest to replace item and work your way to the hardest. This will save time and effort.

Instructions

1

Pull the fuse panel cover off the lower dash panel below the instrument cluster. Pull and inspect fuse No. 12, which protects the power lock circuit. Replace that fuse with another 20-amp fuse from location No. 14.

2

Test the power door locks. If they now work, install a new 20-amp fuse in position No. 14. If not, install the fuse you removed from position No. 12 in position No. 14, reinstall the fuse panel cover and move to Step 3.

3

Remove the power switch bezel from the door panel with a Phillips screwdriver and trim tool. Disconnect the power lock switch from the wiring harness. Remove the power switch bezel from the other door using the trim tool and disconnect the power lock from the wiring harness.

4

Plug the second door lock switch into the first door lock's wiring harness. Test the door locks. If the locks now work, replace the first switch; if not, install the first switch in the second switch location and move to Step 5.

5

Remove the screws holding the door panel to the door using a Phillips screwdriver. Pry the door panel trim pins loose from the inner door skin with a trim tool. Lift the door panel up and off the door.

6

Unplug the door lock actuator wiring connector from the actuator. Unbolt the actuator from the mounting bracket using a socket wrench and 8 mm socket. Rotate the actuator to unhook it from the latch rod.

7

Insert a new door lock actuator and hook it to the door latch rod. Bolt the actuator to the door using the socket and wrench.

8

Put the door panel back on the door, aligning the trim pins in the panel with the holes in the door skin. Push the pins into the inner door skin. Reinstall the door mounting screws with the Phillips screwdriver.

9

Plug the door lock switch into the wiring harness. Reinstall the switch bezel with the Phillips screwdriver.