Hey again all,

This is related to my other post about my broken ignition cylinder, but searching for this topic is proving really difficult and I was hoping this way it might get a little attention in a hurry.

Last night when the truck didn't start I tried the key a few more times. Eventually I noticed that the acc/on positions didn't feel "notchy" and that the key just spun thru them. Pretty sure I broke something, I decided to give up and call for a ride home.

Turned off the ign, took out the key and the system was still energized. Check engine light on, battery light on like when you first turn the key to "on." Radio worked too.

I'm going to head out on lunch to see if the tumbler still moves the actuator rod under the dash (providing I can find it) and I'm seeing that people say I can start the truck by just unbolting the switch from the column and pressing it...but my really major concern is...how do you turn the truck back OFF again?

I had to pull the battery last night so that I'll have a good one this weekend when I try to fix whatever is really broken, I don't want to have to go home, park, get out and unhook it next to a running engine.

Sorry about another thread already but I couldn't find any results similar to my problem.

 

It's probably your actuator linkage or switch( not the tumbler where you insert the key), they are down the steering column. Get a good manual and check it out.

 

I agree with radialarm. You will find the ign./start switch under the dash on top of the steering column. Feel for the rod that runs down the column and connects the key switch, via the ign. switch actuator, to the ign./start switch. The "indents" you feel when you turn the key and the return spring from "start to run" are in the ign./start switch. You should be able to feel these if you move the rod by hand. If not you need to replace the ign/start switch. If everything works OK by hand then it is a good bet that the ign. switch actuator is faulty (a common fault). You need to pull the steering wheel and column shroud to get at this if it is faulty.

 

Ok, I was set to go pick up a Haynes on lunch but discovered the wife emptied the bank account after dropping me off this morning...so I'm stuck til the weekend unless I get some help here...

The rod is on top of the column correct? If I take the little plastic cover (after the gear shift sleeve) off the column will I be able to see/access it? I know I have to pull the wheel (do I need a wheel puller?) and the turn signal box and a bunch of other fun stuff to change the rods/actuators but do I need to do the same if the problem is the switch?

Does the switch have an "off" position that kills the electrics? That way I know if I rehook the battery and can pull the rod back at me that the battery won't have to be disconnected? Anyone have a picture of the switch? I think I've seen one but it was only the terminal end.

Thanks again guys, it's a big help.

 

it really does not help you to have two posts going on the same subject.

it makes it more confusing, not easier to help you.