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Topic: Ignition switch problem (Read 1095 times) previous topic - next topic

Ignition switch problem

Well, its been over a year my poor tbird has been sitting, It sucks having the funds to do the restoration, but not having anywhere to do it (or store it) keeps things from moving forward.

Well anyway, it ran perfectly fine when i parked it, broken engine mount nothing too major, but everything about the car was good. I went to move it the other day and it started in 2 seconds, idled for a good 15 minutes, kicked down after about 3 1/2 mins, just like normal.

I went to put it in reverse (column shift) and it cut out... ok.... try again same thing. 

Then it wouldnt stay running except when the key was between start and run, so to move it I had to hold the key a certain way (and grinded the flywheel a few times) to get it to move.

Would this be a switch going bad, or did some basterd rodent feast on my wiring somewhere?

I noticed my hood liner has a hole now right behind the battery, are there any delecate wires I should check there?
- blain
1988 T-Bird LX- Awaiting HO build, Monster "Eat My Shift" AOD rated 550Hp. BBK ceramic shorties, Jegs mustang (catless) H-Pipe. mustang catback modified axle back for tbird, 94 17" Cobra wheels, 98 'Stang GT 8.8 Traction-lock

Ignition switch problem

Reply #1
Has the ignition switch ever been replaced ?
 I would start by removing the lower column cover and taking a look at the switch .
Fox-less at the moment

Ignition switch problem

Reply #2
I think my uncle (original owner) told me he took it in for a recall back in the day. Ive followed all wires under the column to the battery and around the starter, no chew marks. if the switch itself is bad, can i replace it without having to replace the key?

the same key opens the doors and does the ignition if i remember correctly...
1988 T-Bird LX- Awaiting HO build, Monster "Eat My Shift" AOD rated 550Hp. BBK ceramic shorties, Jegs mustang (catless) H-Pipe. mustang catback modified axle back for tbird, 94 17" Cobra wheels, 98 'Stang GT 8.8 Traction-lock


Ignition switch problem

Reply #4
Wow, great walkthrough.

I'll pick this up http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_Ignition-Starter-Switch-BWD_5971225-P_410_R%7CGRPSESWAMS_541503797___# if I get in there and conclude that it is loose. Plus that means i get to buy a torx hand driver set finally ;)
1988 T-Bird LX- Awaiting HO build, Monster "Eat My Shift" AOD rated 550Hp. BBK ceramic shorties, Jegs mustang (catless) H-Pipe. mustang catback modified axle back for tbird, 94 17" Cobra wheels, 98 'Stang GT 8.8 Traction-lock


Ignition switch problem

Reply #6
some did not have bolt heads on them.
Quote from: jcassity
I honestly dont think you could exceed the cost of a new car buy installing new *stock* parts everywhere in your coug our tbird. Its just plain impossible. You could revamp the entire drivetrain/engine/suspenstion and still come out ahead.
Hooligans! 
1988 Crown Vic wagon. 120K California car. Wifes grocery getter. (junked)
1987 Ford Thunderbird LX. 5.0. s.o., sn-95 t-5 and an f-150 clutch. Driven daily and going strong.
1986 cougar.
lilsammywasapunkrocker@yahoo.com

 

Ignition switch problem

Reply #7
I would assume they replaced them with a torx by hand after the recall, but I wont know until i get a good dry day to look in there,
1988 T-Bird LX- Awaiting HO build, Monster "Eat My Shift" AOD rated 550Hp. BBK ceramic shorties, Jegs mustang (catless) H-Pipe. mustang catback modified axle back for tbird, 94 17" Cobra wheels, 98 'Stang GT 8.8 Traction-lock