keyless ignition, don't do this!
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Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 6,175
Likes: 21
From: Texas
keyless ignition, don't do this!
just because your ignition switch might turn without a key in it does not mean you should start your truck that way. I went to start the '97 with the 7.3 diesel, as it had not run in a while. The key was in the house a few hundred yards away. then I remembered the ignition switch would move without the key. Sure, enough it fired up. It did have the Fuel "Filter. Water in Fuel and Engine temp" lights on, not typical. But it sounded different, noisy, kind of squealing. I thought, well the batteries are probably low and the alternator is working hard. I let it run for a bit and tended to some other stuff. I got back and I could smell something burning, maybe electrical. then saw some smoke coming from below. I shut it off and tried to restart it and the starter barely tried. Then I realize that without the key I probably managed to leave the starter engaged :-( I waited a bit for it to cool off and lucky for me it started and drove home. but, I probably shortened the life of the starter.
Maybe I should replace that ignition switch, but that doesn't sound fun!
Maybe I should replace that ignition switch, but that doesn't sound fun!
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 2,757
Likes: 998
I would not hesitate to replace the starter and the cause of the starter burning up.
The starter does have an over run clutch [bendex] but I suspect it should not be engaged that long. Better to replace the starter on your terms than on the side of the road.
The starter does have an over run clutch [bendex] but I suspect it should not be engaged that long. Better to replace the starter on your terms than on the side of the road.
Tuned
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 398
Likes: 56
From: Saskatchewan
The key only unlocks the cylinder on the column,which allows the mechanism to push the rod into the ignition switch. If the cylinder does not lock and needs no key to allow it to turn, then the key has no effect on the ignition switch and whether, or not the starter stays engaged. If the starter stayed engaged then the problem is likely with the starter relay sticking and keeping the starter engaged.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 6,175
Likes: 21
From: Texas
The key only unlocks the cylinder on the column,which allows the mechanism to push the rod into the ignition switch. If the cylinder does not lock and needs no key to allow it to turn, then the key has no effect on the ignition switch and whether, or not the starter stays engaged. If the starter stayed engaged then the problem is likely with the starter relay sticking and keeping the starter engaged.
Tuned
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 398
Likes: 56
From: Saskatchewan
The only spring is in the ignition switch. While it could be possible the switch is gummed up, or stiff and not returning, I'd still first look to the starter relay as the problem. I have experienced starter staying engaged a few times. I replaced my relay for another reason and seem to be dealing with crap parts that are available today. When it happens I have to open the hood and disconnect the battery, or knock on the relay with a wrench, or pull the trigger wire off the relay. It is easy to tell when this happens to me, so just be prepared to open the hood and cut the power before ruining the starter and/or converter/flywheel ring gear.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 6,175
Likes: 21
From: Texas
sure enough, it didn't even try to start today. I jumped the solenoid with a screwdriver and it fired right. I had an old solenoid in the garage and it works fine. I should probably consider a new solenoid and a new starter, but this is a project truck for now and I rarely use it for commuting. all the check engine lots are off and it is running well for now.
Tuned
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 398
Likes: 56
From: Saskatchewan
The old starter relay is probably better than what is available for new these days. Once it is used to working again, it may not stick any more. You may want to check out the ignition switch and see if it is out of adjustment and in good condition.
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5th Wheeling
Joined: Sep 2023
Posts: 47
Likes: 17
From: On a Dirt Road in BFE
The actual ignition switch (electrical) is pretty easy to do.
The mechanical switch (lock tumbler) is also easy as long as you have a key and it still operates. It’s when it’s broken it’s a bit harder. If it’s worn out, do it before it breaks.
The mechanical switch (lock tumbler) is also easy as long as you have a key and it still operates. It’s when it’s broken it’s a bit harder. If it’s worn out, do it before it breaks.
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i ain't rite
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 65,422
Likes: 5,506
From: Marlboro Mental Hospital.
i no longer use store starter relays as the quality any more is pure crap.
all my vehicles now have stancor monster relays on them for starter relays, and also glow plugs.
https://dieselorings.com/products/16...low-plug-relay
for the extra $20 or so price difference over the chineseium junk they now sell, it is worth it to not have to ever have to change it again.
all my vehicles now have stancor monster relays on them for starter relays, and also glow plugs.
https://dieselorings.com/products/16...low-plug-relay
for the extra $20 or so price difference over the chineseium junk they now sell, it is worth it to not have to ever have to change it again.
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