Key stuck in ignition

Tiny
BILLFSHR
  • MEMBER
  • 1990 FORD F-250
  • 5.8L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 100,000 MILES
I just replaced my power steering pump and hoses, and when I went to start the truck, my key got jammed. So, I've replaced the starter switch activator before, so I assumed it broke again. I started taking the column apart, the small tip on my key switch had broken off, (easy fix) also the starter switch activator was intact, as I inspected everything, I noticed the tilt wheel flange was cracked in three places. So, I disassembled everything and pulled the flange out. Now I'm faced with buying a whole used column or pray I can find a used flange (this part is discontinued by Ford). I found a flange for a cheap price of $185,000, sarcasm! So, now I have to wait 7-10 days for the part, I've pulled all the interior panels left and right under column, everything is apart waiting for that flange. My question is, will my truck start if I push on the starter switch rod? I have ordered a new switch (the one down on the column) but haven't replaced it. I did try it and the truck turned over, but I didn't hear the fuel pump and the truck didn't start.
Saturday, December 11th, 2021 AT 3:47 PM

8 Replies

Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
The EECM (PCM) should not prevent the fuel pump from coming on if it is getting the signal from the ignition switch.

So, what the ignition switch needs to do is just send voltage to the EECM so that it knows a good key has turned the switch and the clutch is pressed or is in park or neutral. If these things are true then the EECM gets voltage on the ignition feed circuit, and it then sends power to the starter, ignition and fuel system.

So, if the engine is turning over then the EECM is seeing this signal from the switch circuit. If the fuel pump is not coming on, then we will have to figure out why the fuel pump is not coming on.

It is possible that this is caused by this not being assembled however, it is unlikely on this older truck.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, December 12th, 2021 AT 10:47 AM
Tiny
BILLFSHR
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Alright, thanks for your reply. I'm going to cross my fingers and wait until I get the part and assemble the steering wheel and go from there, I will keep you posted.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, December 12th, 2021 AT 12:37 PM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Sounds great. Thanks for the update. Yes. Please let us know what happens. Thanks
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, December 12th, 2021 AT 5:37 PM
Tiny
BILLFSHR
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Still waiting for part, but I was wondering. I have the dual tank switch on the dash disconnected for access to the starter switch, would that cause the fuel pump not to work?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, December 13th, 2021 AT 5:56 PM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Absolutely it will. Great job mentioning that. Take a look at the wiring diagram.

The power runs directly from the fuse/relay to the inertia switch to the selector switch.

Let me know what happens when you hook that back up.

Thanks
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
+1
Monday, December 13th, 2021 AT 6:44 PM
Tiny
BILLFSHR
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Are you getting this mail?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, December 20th, 2021 AT 10:45 AM
Tiny
BILLFSHR
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Yes it was that switch, had to buy a used column but I'm on the road again !
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, December 20th, 2021 AT 10:47 AM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
I think there was an issue with posting it because I have seen the emails come through but nothing on the site.

However, that is great info. Thanks so much for coming back and updating us.

Please come back in the future and let us know if you have other questions in the future.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
+1
Monday, December 20th, 2021 AT 11:02 AM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links