1991 Ford F-150 shorts out when inition key turned on

Tiny
DSIROIS
  • MEMBER
  • 1991 FORD F-150
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 15,400 MILES
When I turn my ignition key to start my truck, the lights on the dash go out and I heard a click for the solenoid but it doesn't crack. Playing with the key [turning it on and off] resets the dash lights but when I turn it to crank position, it shorts out again.

I have power windows and door locks. When I turn the key for power to use those items, theres not enough power from my battery to make even the door locks work.

I have replaced recently, the battery, alternator, solenoid. I do have a by-pass toggle switch that I need to flick under the dash in order to start my truck connected to the solenoid.

My truck started having this problem about a week ago but playing with the ignition key or taking the shifter out of park and back into it fixed the problem so I could start it. Didn't do it for a whole week.

What part is faulty or where should I begin to look for the electrical short?
Monday, August 18th, 2008 AT 5:30 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,123 POSTS
Don't assume the fiddling around with the key or shifter is definitley related. It may be ironic.

You need to test when the problem is happening by finding out where the power is. And where it stops using a wiring diagram and a DVOM.

Based on the symptoms, I would be looking a the ignition switch and the neutral saftey switch to start off.
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Monday, August 18th, 2008 AT 5:57 AM

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