Ignition start problem

[TheOldRanger]

I have a 1988 Ranger 2.9 liter. I haven’t run it for several months when it started and ran fine. Now, when I turn the key to the start position, the starters turns the engine and the engine fires and begins to run. When I turn the starter back to the on position, the engine dies. The dash lights only come on when the starter is activated. They do not come on in the on position before I turn to ignition, and they turn off when I return the key to the on position.

Thanks for any help you can provide.

 

[RobbieD]

Pull the steering column shroud (2 Phillips from below) and make sure that your ignition switch isn't coming apart, and that the switch connector isn't loose. Classic description of a common problem, so check that first.

 

[2011Supercab]

Has anyone messed with the wiring at the starter relay?

one of the large terminals should have several wires on it including the positive from the battery

The other large terminal should only have 1 large wire going to the starter.

 

[Cees Klumper]

My money is on the ignition switch, on the steering column under the dash.

 

[TheOldRanger]

Yes, that was it. I replaced both the switch and the lock cylinder and the truck starts and runs fine. The switch came apart in two pieces when I took it off.

Thanks!

 

[RobbieD]

Nice work!

Thank you for letting us know how it turned out.