I just bought a 1990 f-150 lariat auto with the 302 v8. the truck will fire when you turn the key but once you pull your hand off the ignition / key the truck dies. I replaced the ignition key switch but it didnt change anything.

I did notice that in order to get power to the truck (fuel pump radio etc) you have to hold the key at a certain position to get power. If you do not hold it you lose power.

any ideas?

 

It sounds like you need to adjust the ignition switch. Remove the cowling from around the steering column, 2 screws accessible from the bottom side. The switch is a few inches ahead of the key tumbler. Loosen the screws holding the ignition switch and slide it toward the steering wheel, find the sweet spot and tighten the screws.

 

I was thinking it might be the ignition actuator but I wanted to get some opinions before i tore into the truck

 

You might find the ignition actuator broken when you get there. That's not a fun job to replace that so I hope not.

 

I can see the actuator moving when i turn the key, i removed that plastic shield

 

The ignition switch is the same 1987/91 F150/350 & Bronco, 1988/91 F(Super Duty).

It isn't a few inches ahead of the key tumbler (ignition switch cylinder), as it actuated by a rod that runs down the inside of the steering column.

 

so what does that mean its the rod?

 

Read post #6 again, and pay attention to the post I quoted where the member said the switch is a few inches ahead of the key tumbler.

It cannot be "a few inches" considering where the switch is located and the fact that the switch is actuated by a rod that runs down the inside of the steering column.

I doubt the rod is at fault. Either the switch needs to be adjusted, or the actuator that the rod attaches to is the culprit.

There are two different rods, two different actuators as it depends if your truck has a tilt wheel...or not.

Does your truck have a tilt wheel? You'd be surprised that some people are unaware they have a tilt wheel, because...

1965/79 Passenger Cars, 1978/91 F100/350, Bronco and Econoline: The tilt wheel is operated by pressing the T/S handle forward.

 

I suppose I just didnt quite comprehend what you meant then.

Are you saying that the rod that runs down the inside of the steering column would be my issue?

If so, would the cause be from out of adjustment or the actuator rod being bad.

(https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...ctuator-2.html) I assume the rod you are referencing is this.

 

Geez Louise! Read the 3rd line in post #8 again.

 

Sorry, I must have missed that somehow... I am not sure if I have a tilt wheel, I have a feeling I do though. The truck has pretty much every option for a 1990. The switch is a new motorcraft switch so I dont believe thats the issue.

When i turn the key the rod on the top of the column moves in unison with the key, out of adjustment would be the logical assumption.

How would i go about adjusting the key switch, just loosen the screws and play with the adjustment?

Thanks for your time and patience, I am not on my A game tonight

 

Correct. Loosen the screws holding the ignition switch, and in this case you would need to slide it somewhat closer to the steering wheel. When you get it so the starter works, check all the positions of the switch to see if it adjusted correct.

 

Am i pulling the steering wheel to do that? I know to pull the switch out all i needed was a little punch on the little key hole on the bottom and it popped out

 

DO NOT REMOVE THE STEERING WHEEL.

The ignition switch is connected to the actuator on the opposite side of the key tumbler. I think you may be confusing the key tumbler with the ignition switch. Find the ignition switch and follow the instructions in my previous post. Any more questions just ask.

 

I should have said the opposite END of the key tumbler. It is on top of the steering column, toward the dash.