NO SPARK - PRNDL steering column - 2001 Ranger 4.0 auto

[oldfart]

STARTING-NO FIRE-PRNDL (2001 Ranger Edge 4.0 auto 4x4). I have a starting issue that has happened twice now. Both times it corrects itself with the auto transmission PRNDL on the steering column. The engine turns over and cranks well, but NO SPARK or FIRE. The first time I was in Neutral, so I put it in Park and it started perfectly. The next time I was in my garage in Park, no spark, and this time I slammed the PRDNL handle back into Park, and it started. Is this some kind of neutral safety switch issue anyone else has had? Anyone have an idea what my starting issue could be? You help is appreciated.

 

[97RangerXLT]

If I were to guess, the ignition switch has partially failed. the contact for the truck to send signal from the pcm to the plugs is not working, but the contact for the starter is. the switch is likely burried in the column and will need to be lowered from the dash to access it.

when it happens again, turn the key off and on several times to see if that helps to get it started. If it were truly in thge PRNDL portion, I would suggest a neutral saftey switch, but if that were the case you would not get any signal whatsoever. just plain turn the key and nothing..

AJ