Possible electric issue

1987 FORD BRONCO
180,000 MILES • 5.0L • V8 • 4WD • MANUAL
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MICHAEL WILLIAM KAMINSKI II
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Recently purchased the vehicle listed above was informed upon purchasing then the distributor was bad according to a reputable shop. however, I do not believe that's the case. plans to the fact when I put the key in and try to turn it over the volt gauge goes backwards and it makes the sound as if you had a bad battery. however, the battery is good but starter does not engage. I do not hear the fuel pump kicking on and I also hear what appears to be a clicking noise by the left side of the firewall. any thoughts or questions or knowledge of where to start? thank you
Jul 31, 2019 at 5:11 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good afternoon,

This sounds like a possible ignition switch as that is the source of power for everything that is not working.

I attached a diagram for you to view. Check the voltages at the switch with key off and key on.

Roy
Jul 31, 2019 at 7:39 AM
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MICHAEL WILLIAM KAMINSKI II
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Managed to get the fuel pump working. when you turn the ignition key the starter sounds like a dead battery. so I replace the starter solenoid. still same problem. check fusible links, replaced one. it was melted down by the left side firewall. I'm at a loss.
Jul 31, 2019 at 10:44 AM
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MICHAEL WILLIAM KAMINSKI II
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Engine doesn't crank. tried running tables directly to solenoid and directly to starter still nothing.
Jul 31, 2019 at 10:44 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Did you check any of the voltages from the ignition switch?

Roy
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Jul 31, 2019 at 6:48 PM
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MICHAEL WILLIAM KAMINSKI II
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No, I didn't. the ignition switch is working when you turn the key over the fuel pump comes on the engine lights come on. so I'm sure that the ignition switch is working.
Aug 1, 2019 at 12:25 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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You still need to check the voltages at the switch. You may have one terminal with low voltage that could affect the systems that are not working.

You need to start somewhere and that is where you start.

Roy
Aug 1, 2019 at 1:35 AM
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MICHAEL WILLIAM KAMINSKI II
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Okay, I tested all showed 12 volts. not sure where to go from there.
Aug 1, 2019 at 8:29 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Okay, if you have 12 volts, the battery is almost dead. You need at least 12.4 to 12.6 volts.

Which wires had the voltage?

Roy
Aug 1, 2019 at 8:37 AM
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MICHAEL WILLIAM KAMINSKI II
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Will the battery make it do that noise if it is dead? even if you have it hooked up via jumper cables to another vehicle?
Aug 2, 2019 at 3:57 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Yes, the low voltage will cause this. That's why I want those voltage readings.

Roy
Aug 2, 2019 at 9:29 AM
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