Over the past few weeks I have been hunting a problem that has me baffled. I have a 1989 GT, that is basically bone stock.

The original problem was, as I was running, the entire electrical system would shut off, I'd jiggle the key, and everything would come back on. So, I replaced the ignition switch because, visually, you could see the plastic of the ignition switch started to separate from the aluminum.

Once the new switch was in a new problem cropped up. The engine will crank, but not 'catch/run' when in the START position. However, if I release the key from 'START', while it is spinning, the engine will 'catch', and run. This is annoying as it requires me to be extremely dexterous in matching the spinup of the starter with the position of the key.

My guess is there is an alignment problem in the position of the switch, and that in START the pins for RUN are not in contact, and that when I back off START the RUN pin(s) make contact. Looking at the ignition switch attachment to the column I do not see any lateral adjustment. There is just a little lateral play.

My question is if there is a way to adjust either the ignition switch or adjust the slider 'pin' so that it will catch/run when the key is in the START position ? or do I have to painstakingly adjust it in the 1/8" lateral play that exists ?

Glen

1989 Ford Mustang GT (310,000 miles)

 

The electrical part down on the column is adjustable. I would just replace it and be done w/ it. You can adjust it after you've replaced it. There is about a 1/4" of adjustment to play with.

 

thats the ticket there!!

 

Thanks.. Will look into it over the weekend.

I did replace the bad switch. The problem showed up afterwards. 1/4" is a way small amount of adjustment !! [8D]

Glen

1989 Ford Mustang GT : 310,000 miles; Bone stock

 

It only take a very little bit for the adjustment to be off. We're talking C**t hairs!!