Neutral Safety Switch?
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New User
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 5
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From: Antioch IL
Neutral Safety Switch?
I have a 91 F150 lariat that refuses to start. I had to salvage a new steering column last week, and when i finally had enough time to install it, the truck wouldn't start. It doesn't turn over, but i hear the fuel pump kick on. My dad said something about a "neutral safety switch"... Can someone please tell me what the heck that is or how to fix the problem? Thanks for your help
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 239
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From: Shawnee, OK
The NSS as far as I know is just a switch for automatic transmissions that doesn't allow the truck to start in gear..If you replaced the column, and it's not starting, then something is hooked up wrong or is loose. I'd go back and recheck everything.
Post Fiend
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 19,402
Likes: 38
From: Bonita Springs FL
The NSS is also used in trucks with manual transmissions. It's on the clutch pedal and won't let you start the truck unless the clutch is all the way in.
However since neither one of those switches are in the steering column, it's probably not the cause. If you hear the fuel pumps running then it's not your inertia switch either. Many people accidentally trip it while working in that area. My guess is that the ignition switch at the base of the column isn't being engaged. There is a rod that passes down the column from the ignition cylinder and that switch is what actually starts the truck, in combination with the NSS.
However since neither one of those switches are in the steering column, it's probably not the cause. If you hear the fuel pumps running then it's not your inertia switch either. Many people accidentally trip it while working in that area. My guess is that the ignition switch at the base of the column isn't being engaged. There is a rod that passes down the column from the ignition cylinder and that switch is what actually starts the truck, in combination with the NSS.
Cargo Master
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 2,791
Likes: 8
From: Edmonton AB, Canada
Can have adverse affects on garage shelving when you accidentally start in reverse with the door open.... Or anything else parked around when you reach in the window to start a standard with it bypassed and dont realize someone put it in gear...
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Lead Driver
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 7,970
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From: Greater Austin, Texas
However since neither one of those switches are in the steering column, it's probably not the cause.
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