The shift tube broke on my 97 F-150 and after replacing it the truck won't turn over. I can start it by crossing the starter solenoid. Either I messed something up during the install or maybe my ignition switch is bad. There is a switch midway down the shift tube that I guess indicates park; it appears to be mechanically OK.

Any troubleshooting ideas would be appreciated. I'm going to buy a new ignition switch and put it in but that might not be the problem.

Thanks!

 

Try starting in N to see if something isn't happy with the NSS?

 

No, won't start in neutral. Replaced ignition switch, no help.

 

How to tell if I have the anti-theft option? Perhaps I triggered it.

 

Measured 2.5V on the starter solenoid "Signal" post, goes to ground when I turn the key to start. DTR switch all that's left?

 

Since it worked before you did the column work, I'd have to assume that something is either not put together correctly or something got broken during that repair work.

You need to determine where the START signal is getting lost. Check fuse F21 first to make sure it's not blown. If not, then use either a meter or test lamp to see if the fuse goes HOT IN START. If not, something is dorked up in the column's electrical circuit or in the ignition switch's actuation.

If the signal as F21 is good, then the signal goes to the starter enable relay (only if equipped with a RAP module) then to the clutch pedal switch connector (bypass plug installed if automatic), then to the DTR switch (if automatic), then to the starter relay on the firewall.

If you have factory remote keyless entry, you have a RAP module. The module is mounted way up under the dash above the driver's left foot.

 

Thank you, I'll check those.

 

Fuse 21 is blown! Have to go buy some fuses but that'll hopefully be it.

 

I swapped the original ignition switch back in and it's working again. Going back to the store to see if they gave me the wrong part.

Thanks again!

 

I had more starting trouble so I replaced the neutral safety switch. Glad I did, the shifting is now better than ever. The final fix for the no start was to bend the pins on the fuse in the fuse box. Not sure why but I must have damaged the connections with my multimeter probe.