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Hello, I just got a 1965 f100 and it won’t start with the key. I can get it to start from solenoid though. When I turn the key on I get lights on the dash but I don’t get any of the headlights or turn signals even when running. I can hear the sound of the turn signals and I get the light indicator on the dash as well. Just wondering where the best place to start my hunt for the issue.
Is the truck auto or manual?
I would start at the fuses
Pull them all and clean the holders and fuse ends
Check fuses with meter and see whY happens.
You sure the bulbs are good?
Dave ----
the truck is an automatic. I haven’t checked the bulbs, just figured that it would be something else if the all won’t come on, but I’ll give them and the fuses a look.
If the fuses are good and all the wiring is more or less unmolested. Unplug these connectors in the engine compartment and clean them up with some rolled up sandpaper. If they are badly corroded, they can be difficult to unplug. Put a little dielectric silicone on them before you plug them back.
Never ASSUME the bulbs are good LOL
FOr head lights the dimer switch on the floor could be bad.
With a test light you should have 1 wire that is hot with head lights on.
If no power you need to back trace why. If power in and none out bad switch.
For a no crank you need to check for power to the NSS.
Will the truck try and crank if you move the shift lever when holding it to start?
Dave ----
Update: I have the truck starting with the key now. I'm not sure what I did to get that working but it is. As for the the lights, the running light all work. I still don't have headlights but I can pick up some bulbs and change those out this week. I did check all the fuses and they were good and I replaced the headlight switch. Crop duster, I tried disconnecting the connector at the fire wall but it wouldn't budge and I didnt want to rip it up. I do plan on getting a new wiring harness in the future but I would prefer to use that money to upgrade to power disc brakes first. Thank you everyone for the help and I will try and keep the post going as I do the checks.
Automatic, if it has a park or neutral lockout switch, might be the culprit. If it acts up again jiggle the shift lever while holding the key in the start position.
