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Old Apr 12, 2013 | 11:54 PM
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Question intermittent electrical problems

I have a 1988 Ford Ranger, and the fuel gauge, radio, tachometer, and engine temperature gauge will sometimes operate, and sometimes are dead. I don't believe it can be a fuse problem, because I would either have poewer or not, all the time. I looked at the fuses and circuit breakers in the fuse box near the steering column, and one circuit breaker (for the windshield wipers) appeared to have rust on the prongs. I lightly sanded that off, but now even the wipers work only intermittently. WHen I tried to reinsert a circuit breaker, the old plastic broke where the fuse box attaches to the metal housing around it, so that box is just dangling there now.
I guess I am asking if anyone has seen the intermittent problems I am experiencing and if they found a fix.
Also, anyone know where I can get a new fuse box?
 
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Old Apr 13, 2013 | 06:43 AM
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I had this same problem on my 86 Ranger, and the big trucks have the same problem also. It's usually the ignition switch. When it happens, lightly wiggle the switch back and forth without cutting the engine off. Mine got so bad the engine would start and then cut off. I had to start the truck and then quickly move the key to a certain position or the engine would cut back off.

Play with it and see if that's the problem.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2013 | 10:50 AM
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Thanks. I'll try that and see if that is the issue.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2013 | 10:37 PM
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Dave,
Thanks! That did the trick.
Kevin
 
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