replace key switch or convert push button
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Joined: Apr 2004
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replace key switch or convert push button
1986 Ford F250 super cab 2 wd with tilt. my ignition switch has become un reliable only at the FINAL point of its travel . I bought the truck with the push button manual glow plug and it works excellent, I turn the key to its first foward position(3 o'clock), hold down the glow plug button for 5 seconds and it always fires. about a month ago I had to turn the key to its second position alittle farther and there is more resistance (about the 5 o'clock position) some days and others it has been the usual 4 o'clock. I would like to convert to a push button starter switch. Can I run two 12ga wires to the starter relay on the passenger fender and connect one to the center stud and one to the thin stud facing the radiator to complete this ? I will still use my key switch for accessories and the first travel position than push buttons for the glow plugs and starter. all input would really help, regards
Junior User
Joined: Jul 2004
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From: Ione, CA
I have had to run a temporary PB switch for my starter befor because my starter selenoid was going out and doing the same thing so check that out first. but 12 guage will work I used 10 and never got any heat.
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Can you give me any things to look out for or pointers , i really would like to replace the switch but am timid to get into the colum. I do have cruise control on the steering wheel ? I do own tools but am very light in mechanical abilities . Thank you
Originally Posted by fellro86
it isn't that hard or expensive to do the ignition switch, I would stay with it. Just replace the switch is my opinion.
Hotshot
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 11,697
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From: Marengo, Iowa
The ignition switch is low on the column, you do not need to pull the steering wheel or mess with the key lock. Take the bottom cover off the dash, then there is about 2 bolts that will drop the column, then there will be acouple small bolts that hold the ignition switch from the top. By this point, it will be fairly evident what you need to do to get it off. Reinstall will be basically the reverse. The key lock operates a pushrod which goes down to this switch low on the column, the switch sits over the rod. When you have the new switch in hand, you'll likely see what I am talking about.
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Joined: Jul 2004
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From: Ione, CA
First have the starter selenoid (I think that how you spell it) checked, because I had the same problem and it turned out to be the selenoid, so if i was you I would start simple. Just my experience talking 
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well I am suprised how easy it was and now everything is fixed and back to normal, Thanks fellas. It was to easy (almost embassassing) All i did was unground both battery than put my key in the switch and turn it to full start- just above the hazards has a slot that I found a small phillips and just pressed that pin up and the cylinder lifts out, and installed a new one. See the pictures in my gallery this truck is flat out NEVER-EVER had anything wrong with it and I treet it like my child and go alittle crazy when it has anything out of the ordinary happen, Glad thats fixed
Originally Posted by fellro86
The ignition switch is low on the column, you do not need to pull the steering wheel or mess with the key lock. Take the bottom cover off the dash, then there is about 2 bolts that will drop the column, then there will be acouple small bolts that hold the ignition switch from the top. By this point, it will be fairly evident what you need to do to get it off. Reinstall will be basically the reverse. The key lock operates a pushrod which goes down to this switch low on the column, the switch sits over the rod. When you have the new switch in hand, you'll likely see what I am talking about.
