1978 electrical problem, will not start
Thread Starter
|
More Turbo
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 721
Likes: 1
From: Floyd, Va
1978 electrical problem, will not start
Hello,
I just purchased a 1978 F250 Ranger Lariat, AT, A/C, Cruise, Tilt, 460.
It has a few problems. I just drove it a couple miles to my buddies place, and now it will not even engage the starter.
The lights work, but do not dim when i turn the key. I tried to jump it, but not even a click from the solenoid. I checked the connections, they are all good.
Now my wife is giving me a really hard time about the truck I bought that stranded me on its first trip from the house.
I would greatly appreciate any ideas.
I just purchased a 1978 F250 Ranger Lariat, AT, A/C, Cruise, Tilt, 460.
It has a few problems. I just drove it a couple miles to my buddies place, and now it will not even engage the starter.
The lights work, but do not dim when i turn the key. I tried to jump it, but not even a click from the solenoid. I checked the connections, they are all good.
Now my wife is giving me a really hard time about the truck I bought that stranded me on its first trip from the house.
I would greatly appreciate any ideas.
Cross-Country
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 79
Likes: 1
Take the wire of the "S" post on the starter relay and put a test light on it. If it is not getting power then it is somewhere in the ignition switch or wires. If it is getting power then the relay may be bad. Start there
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 8,261
Likes: 15
From: Big Sky Country
Don't rule out a faulty NSS (neutral safety switch) try "jiggling" around the shifter while starting the truck...
Or better yet just temporarily bypass the NSS (after you rule out the solenoid and ignition switch).
Or better yet just temporarily bypass the NSS (after you rule out the solenoid and ignition switch).
MSEE
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 10,386
Likes: 35
From: Austin, TX
Either the solenoid is bad, or it's not getting a trigger signal. You need to check for power getting to the 'S' post first as Redtires019 describes above. Why ask for advice if you're just going to do your own thing anyway?
Trending Topics
Thread Starter
|
More Turbo
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 721
Likes: 1
From: Floyd, Va
I did all of that yesterday before I asked. I just wanted to put out all of the info I had. I have not been able to check the truck since yesterday. It is still at my friends house.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership
Brett Foote
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches
Pouria Savadkouei
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained
Brett Foote
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
MSEE
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 10,386
Likes: 35
From: Austin, TX
Since it sounds like you have done some other diagnosis that was not listed in your original post, please list out all the things you have checked.
You're saying you have verified that 12 volts is getting to the 'S' post of the solenoid with the key in START?
You're saying you have verified that 12 volts is getting to the 'S' post of the solenoid with the key in START?
Thread Starter
|
More Turbo
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 721
Likes: 1
From: Floyd, Va
Yesterday I ran a jumper to the starter just to make sure it wasn't stuck. I have not yet done any other diagnosis since it is parked at my friend's house and i didnt have my tools. I will be heading over there soon and use the advice i have been given so far and will report back. Thank you all
MSEE
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 10,386
Likes: 35
From: Austin, TX
Applying power to the 'S' post of the solenoid is what actually makes it close. The solenoid will never engage without this.
Thread Starter
|
More Turbo
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 721
Likes: 1
From: Floyd, Va
Thank you all for your help, I had to hotwire it to get it home and out of his driveway. I checked out the wiring behind the ignition switch and it is a mess. The previous owner had spliced in multiple places. I really appreciate all of the input. I will pick up a new switch and do some wire repairs later this week or weekend.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Estes9294
1999 - 2003 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel
10
Jul 1, 2014 03:02 AM
whippy
1999 - 2003 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel
9
Sep 8, 2010 05:38 PM
Hottarod
1973 - 1979 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
8
Nov 8, 2001 06:36 AM
