Key problem???

[Sdude2008]

My newest problem started yesterday. When I turned my key to start the truck it started but when I released the key it died. At first I thought it was some kind of big vaccuum leak but I found nothing wrong under the hood. When I checked further I found I could start the truck and hold the key to keep it running. If I am very careful the key wil stay in the proper position to keep the truck running. Unfortunately if I hit a bump or something it makes the key slip and the engine dies. Has anyone experienced this? I'm guessing I probably need a new cylinder but thought I would ask here first. Thanks for anyhelp you can give. 1988 Ranger xlt

 

[Natedog]

My newest problem started yesterday. When I turned my key to start the truck it started but when I released the key it died. At first I thought it was some kind of big vaccuum leak but I found nothing wrong under the hood. When I checked further I found I could start the truck and hold the key to keep it running. If I am very careful the key wil stay in the proper position to keep the truck running. Unfortunately if I hit a bump or something it makes the key slip and the engine dies. Has anyone experienced this? I'm guessing I probably need a new cylinder but thought I would ask here first. Thanks for anyhelp you can give. 1988 Ranger xlt

SOunds like a new ignition swithc is in order.

 

[Sdude2008]

I changed key cylinder but it didn't fix the problem. I pulled the lower column shroud and it found a slider switch of some sort. It was loose. When I attempted to see if I could push it in tighter it came apart and a piece fell out. Anyway I put it back together and taped it off for now. Can anyone tell me what that slider switch is called? Thanks.

 

[holyford86]

I had the same problem, there are 4 tabs that hold that slider in, just put it up in there and bend the tabs over to hold it in there, thats the way its supposed to be

 

[AllanD]

That "slider switch" is your ignition switch.

Why does everyone presume that the ignition cylinder and ignition switch
are right next to each other?

Those switches are generally cheap, usually $10-$12

AD