key in ignition turn key to run and it tries to start?

2003 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
265,000 MILES • 5.3L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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HD2424
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  • 190 POSTS
Put key in ignition turn key to run and it tries to start finish turning key to start truck starts. It doesn’t start In run but tries. Once I start truck it runs fine. I’m stumped please help.
Jul 12, 2021 at 10:57 PM
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STEVE W.
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,327 POSTS
Sounds like the ignition switch has developed an internal fault in the contacts. Either something conductive or more likely one of the spring loaded contacts inside has broken and is shorting the start circuit, or the gear teeth on the outside of the unit have started to break free. The issue could cause damage if it decides to activate the starter while the engine is already running.
Replacement of the switch isn't super difficult but it requires a bit of care with the connectors as they are easy to damage. The first step would be to remove the battery ground cable. Then you remove the upper and lower trim covers from the steering column. With those off you can release the wiring harness connectors and retainer strap shown in the 2nd image. Next you carefully remove the alarm connector as shown in the 3rd image. Then you use either the special tool or a small screwdriver to release the retainer clips for the switch and slide the switch off.

Before installing a new ignition switch, the lock cylinder gear has to be rotated counterclockwise until it hits the stop. Counterclockwise from the drivers perspective. In order to rotate the lock cylinder all the way the key and lock cylinder need to be removed. Once the key and lock cylinder are removed, rotate counterclockwise with a screwdriver.
Now slide the ignition switch into place so it latches. Then you can reinstall the ignition cylinder and test that you can move the switch through all positions without binding. If you can then you reconnect the wiring and test the switch operation. If it all works properly put everything back together.
Jul 13, 2021 at 1:29 AM
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HD2424
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  • 190 POSTS
Okay, thanks for the help. I’ll change that and let you know what happens.
Jul 13, 2021 at 1:39 AM
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STEVE W.
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,327 POSTS
Sounds good, let us know what you find.
Jul 13, 2021 at 2:20 AM
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HD2424
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  • 190 POSTS
Will do.
Jul 13, 2021 at 3:24 AM
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HD2424
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Got an A/C question for you. 2004 Chevy Silverado 1500. I had some electrical problems on A/C got those fixed. I evacuated the system and charged. I got 40 on low side and 175 on high side at 80 degrees outside. It’s perfect 34 degrees coming out of vents.I go out this morning to recheck know air is about 50 at vents and low side readings is high at 80 and high side is low at a 100. I used a old compressor lightly used sat in a closet for about a year. Could that be the problem? The system had 0 leaks verified by evacuation-30 held 2 hours before I charged so I know correct amount of Freon is in system.
Jul 13, 2021 at 10:18 PM
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STEVE W.
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,327 POSTS
Could be the compressor shaft seal. They can draw in under vacuum and not leak but will leak under pressure. Hit all the joints and seal area with a solution of soapy water and look for bubbles.
Jul 14, 2021 at 4:21 AM
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HD2424
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  • 190 POSTS
Okay, I’ll check that had no leaks when I vacuumed but that makes sense what you are saying.
Jul 14, 2021 at 4:35 AM
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HD2424
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  • 190 POSTS
Thanks for the help.
Jul 14, 2021 at 4:36 AM
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STEVE W.
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,327 POSTS
No problem, please let us know what you find and the outcome. It may help others.
Jul 14, 2021 at 8:37 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

We haven't heard from you for a couple of days. Has any progress been made? We are interested in knowing.

Take care,
Joe
Jul 17, 2021 at 3:39 PM
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HD2424
  • MEMBER
  • 190 POSTS
I changed the ignition switch and truck started right up and no more of it trying to start by itself.

Thanks for the help.
Jul 18, 2021 at 12:20 AM
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STEVE W.
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,327 POSTS
Great to hear. Thanks for using 2CarPros.
Jul 18, 2021 at 4:57 AM
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