Starting problems - ignition switch
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Feb 2003
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Starting problems - ignition switch
It is an 1989 F350. When I turn the key, nothing happens. Except for the instrument cluster being on, where it tells you the brake is on. Try it again and it starts just fine, very quickly. Happened 3 times already. Sounds like an electrical problem. Is the ignition switch bad? That's what I suspect. How do I test and replace it?
Could it be something else, like the starter?
It only has 85K miles so that's a bit surprising.
Could it be something else, like the starter?
It only has 85K miles so that's a bit surprising.
Last edited by carpe_diem; Jul 9, 2003 at 10:17 PM.
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From: Virginia
Starting problems - ignition switch
My 1980 has done that before and it was the little elbow connector that fits on the starter relay on the passenger side fenderwell. I took it off and put it back on, and it fixed it.
Thread Starter
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,314
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Starting problems - ignition switch
I cannot find it. Looked in the FSM. It doesn't tell location of the starter relay. I don't know where to look for the starter either.
According to the FSM, this could be caused by:
Neutral switch - where is that located? On the transmission?
Starter relay
The ignition switch on the steering column
So, where do I start? This intermittent problem is driving me crazy.
EDIT:
I found the starter relay - it is connected to the + of the battery. Any way to test it?
EDIT:
OEM starter relay?
I may need one for 89 F350. Does it matter what kind you get or do I need an OEM relay?
EDIT:
I found Advanced Auto parts has GP Sorensen relay. Is that a good one or must I go with something else.
According to the FSM, this could be caused by:
Neutral switch - where is that located? On the transmission?
Starter relay
The ignition switch on the steering column
So, where do I start? This intermittent problem is driving me crazy.
EDIT:
I found the starter relay - it is connected to the + of the battery. Any way to test it?
EDIT:
OEM starter relay?
I may need one for 89 F350. Does it matter what kind you get or do I need an OEM relay?
EDIT:
I found Advanced Auto parts has GP Sorensen relay. Is that a good one or must I go with something else.
Last edited by carpe_diem; Jul 12, 2003 at 11:50 AM.
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Joined: Jan 2008
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Starting problems - ignition switch
Yes, with the transmission in Park/neutral.
Touch a 12V powered wire to the S terminal and that should activate the starter.
If it doesn't there are a few possiblities of why it won't.
Touch a 12V powered wire to the S terminal and that should activate the starter.
If it doesn't there are a few possiblities of why it won't.
Thread Starter
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,314
Likes: 35
Starting problems - ignition switch
Update: I replaced the starter relay with Conrad starter relay from Autozone. It was a bit more than the cheaper one they had there. Thus far started 2 times when I tried it but will become obvious as it is used more.
