my 71 automatic start-up problem
Thread Starter
|
Postmaster
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 4,525
Likes: 1
From: oh
my 71 automatic start-up problem
I have about 50 percent chance of a start-up,and need some expertise.
My truck is a 302 automatic on column. When I turn key--and fumble with shifter handle it may start. If not--then I bypass by jumping off solenoid. It starts right up,and runs great. Please inform me if shifter needs adjusted--then where? If it is ignition switch--why does it start sometimes,and when the shifter is jiggled it may start? The horn and the turn signals do not work. I wonder if this is the answer? Maybe something inside column? Bill
My truck is a 302 automatic on column. When I turn key--and fumble with shifter handle it may start. If not--then I bypass by jumping off solenoid. It starts right up,and runs great. Please inform me if shifter needs adjusted--then where? If it is ignition switch--why does it start sometimes,and when the shifter is jiggled it may start? The horn and the turn signals do not work. I wonder if this is the answer? Maybe something inside column? Bill
Junior User
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 52
Likes: 0
From: Anaheim, California
If it's a column shift, I would check the neutral switch first. They are usually near the bottom of the column near where your foot would be if on the brake pedal.
If the problem is in the Ignition switch, once the engine starts jiggle the key/switch around and try to get it to shut down.
A defective neutral switch will affect only starting, but the ignition switch may affect starting and running.
Squido
If the problem is in the Ignition switch, once the engine starts jiggle the key/switch around and try to get it to shut down.
A defective neutral switch will affect only starting, but the ignition switch may affect starting and running.
Squido
Posting Guru
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 1,288
Likes: 1
From: redding U.S.A.
I would second the nuetral switch.
Also check the wiring connectors, disconnect them, hit the terminals with contact cleaner, and work it on and off a few times. Does a good job of knocking off corrosion.
Also check the wiring connectors, disconnect them, hit the terminals with contact cleaner, and work it on and off a few times. Does a good job of knocking off corrosion.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 9,893
Likes: 12
From: Ohio
VERY common issue with column shifters of that era. Had two trucks with "Hold the shifter to start". Kinda a theft deterrant but a pain when you're in a hurry(or don't have both hands free).
There is a switch mounted on top side of column shaft(down by pedals) that is held by two small sheet metal screws. The shifter has a tab sticking out that pushes on switch and when things get worn it won't push on the switch far enough. Loosen the screws and rotate it just a touch so that functions properly, tighten screws.
There is a switch mounted on top side of column shaft(down by pedals) that is held by two small sheet metal screws. The shifter has a tab sticking out that pushes on switch and when things get worn it won't push on the switch far enough. Loosen the screws and rotate it just a touch so that functions properly, tighten screws.
Thread Starter
|
Postmaster
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 4,525
Likes: 1
From: oh
VERY common issue with column shifters of that era. Had two trucks with "Hold the shifter to start". Kinda a theft deterrant but a pain when you're in a hurry(or don't have both hands free).
There is a switch mounted on top side of column shaft(down by pedals) that is held by two small sheet metal screws. The shifter has a tab sticking out that pushes on switch and when things get worn it won't push on the switch far enough. Loosen the screws and rotate it just a touch so that functions properly, tighten screws.
There is a switch mounted on top side of column shaft(down by pedals) that is held by two small sheet metal screws. The shifter has a tab sticking out that pushes on switch and when things get worn it won't push on the switch far enough. Loosen the screws and rotate it just a touch so that functions properly, tighten screws.
Thanks a million!! I see it...but looks to be correctly set. Maybe if I loosen bolt,it will work. I will let you know. Thanks again!!! Bill
Trending Topics
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 9,893
Likes: 12
From: Ohio
It only takes about " " that much to make it not work. That is why you have to just "support" the shift handle to make it start.
Make sure you take it out of park(set brake) and then move it TOWARDS the gas pedal side, as if you loosen it with it in park, it will likely just roll farther out of placement by the weight of spring inside the switch.
To test it, leave truck in PARK, turn key to START position and then just move the switch just slightly(might take two people to do this?). If truck starts after moving switch, adjust til the lever pushes it far enough to do it.
Make sure you take it out of park(set brake) and then move it TOWARDS the gas pedal side, as if you loosen it with it in park, it will likely just roll farther out of placement by the weight of spring inside the switch.
To test it, leave truck in PARK, turn key to START position and then just move the switch just slightly(might take two people to do this?). If truck starts after moving switch, adjust til the lever pushes it far enough to do it.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership
Brett Foote
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches
Pouria Savadkouei
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained
Brett Foote
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
Thread Starter
|
Postmaster
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 4,525
Likes: 1
From: oh
cool---I pushed the switch slightly and truck started right up.
I drove 7 miles and got a haircut,when I came out it won't start again. I did the same,pushed switch alittle more and truck started right up. This switch is unknown to me. I never had this problem with my 78 automatic. What is the name? well I hope this cures my truck from not starting. It is a pain to jump off the solenoid.....thanks Bill
I drove 7 miles and got a haircut,when I came out it won't start again. I did the same,pushed switch alittle more and truck started right up. This switch is unknown to me. I never had this problem with my 78 automatic. What is the name? well I hope this cures my truck from not starting. It is a pain to jump off the solenoid.....thanks Bill
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 9,893
Likes: 12
From: Ohio
The switch is adjustable. Just loosen the two screws(one on each end) and slide it a touch so that the post pushes it farther. It will work like new all over again. Like I mentioned, take it out of PARK so that the spring pressure doesn't move the switch in the wrong direction when you loosen the screws. PUT ON PARKING BRAKE AND BLOCK WHEELS!!!!!!
Not sure how the 78's were set up? Might have similar type switch, but might be a bit of an improvement in design so that this doesn't happen? Not sure if it's just called the NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH, or some other name?
Not sure how the 78's were set up? Might have similar type switch, but might be a bit of an improvement in design so that this doesn't happen? Not sure if it's just called the NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH, or some other name?
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,338
Likes: 6
From: UPSTATE NY
i just bypassed my switch by twisting the 2 wires together. and then the other 2 wires are for the reverse lights, and those are on a custom push button switch i installed. having things this way is convienent for me and i tend not to forget. but hopefully mom wont ever have to borrow the truck.
Thread Starter
|
Postmaster
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 4,525
Likes: 1
From: oh
Well I think it is cured-at least for now. Just came back with a load of 1956 f100 truck and parts,and will work on these this week. Freighttrain--you are in Ohio too. Danger Dave you are in Florida? I live in Ashtabula area and Ocala area in winter. Cool!!! Bill
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 88,826
Likes: 787
From: Simi Valley, CA
1967/77 Neutral Safety Switch (NSS)
When it goes on the fritz again...
C7TZ7A247A .. NSS (Motorcraft SW600)
Still available from Ford, but try an autoparts store first, cuz for what Ford wants for the little darlin' ($$$!) will buy you a ratty '56 F100 parts truck!
Fits: 1967/77 F100/350 with: MX Cruise-O-Matic (1967) / C4 (1969/77) / C6 (1968/77).
C7TZ7A247A .. NSS (Motorcraft SW600)
Still available from Ford, but try an autoparts store first, cuz for what Ford wants for the little darlin' ($$$!) will buy you a ratty '56 F100 parts truck!
Fits: 1967/77 F100/350 with: MX Cruise-O-Matic (1967) / C4 (1969/77) / C6 (1968/77).