Truck dies when key is set to "run" position

[millersir]

Hi All,

As the title suggests my 1990 2.9L has dome light, radio, brake lights, hazards (but no headlights) when I get in the truck with no key. I stick the key in the ignition and i get the door ajar ding. I go to start the truck, and as soon as I turn the key to the "run" position before engaging the starter, everything shuts off. Dome light, radio, etc. As if the negative on the battery was just disconnected as soon as the key was turned. Does anyone know what this is? Could it be as simple as a fuse? Thanks in advance for any insights you can share.

 

[kunar]

I would guess it's a bad ignition switch. They're kinda known for wearing out. Replacement's arent too expensive, nor are they hard to swap out.

Edit: After reading your post again, I would check the battery terminals and make sure they're clean and connected properly. Symptoms don't sound exaclty like an ignition switch, but it may still be worth looking into.

 

[millersir]

Thanks for the reply. I'm going to clean the battery up first and see where that gets me.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I agree with checking battery terminals. both pos and neg. And at the starter too and wherever the neg grounds on the block.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Check the connections of all the wires (including the little ones) on the fender solenoid

 

[millersir]

Case closed. I found some corrosion and a bad enough ground wire connection to justify replacing the hardware. After a good cleanup and new hardware the issue was fixed. Thanks guys.