Hey guys
I have a 1988 Ford F150 with 6 cylinder,automatic.
The key switch broke so I replaced it.After it was put back together I turned the key over to crank the truck.The engine spun over a few times then quit turning over like it quit getting power to the starter.All accessories still work,The entire truck still gets power when ignition is on like it's supposed to it just wont turn the engine over.
You can start it by jumping the solenoid.It has to be a wire somewhere or something small I just don't know where to start looking.
Here's what's been replaced while I was guessing at the cranking problem.
Key switch
Ignition switch that mounts on top of the steering column under the dash
Solenoid

Can I just run a push button on it since it will jump at the solenoid??

Thanks guys for your help.I REALLY need to get this truck running.

 

Have you tried in neutral? Maybe the switch is going bad or out of adjustmnt.

 

The key doesn't go into a switch - it goes into the lock cylinder. Did you align the switch on the column? That's not a solenoid; it's a relay. A solenoid would be on the starter motor, and your truck probably doesn't have that style of starter.

.

In any case, the problem is most likely the ignition acutators, between the lock cylinder & ig.sw. They're cheap, but VERY complicated to replace. So either find a steering column specialist locally (where are you?), or find a good used steering column (it's VERY easy to swap), or start Googling & reading how to DIY. I think there's a writeup on FSB.

.

A pushbutton for the starter might work for a while, but the actuators will continue to bend & break, so it won't be long before the key doesn't do anything (including turn the truck OFF).

 

have similar trouble
used push button but after runs and warms up does not work and burns the solenoid out
replaced ignition switch on collum also and when turned key to stat the switch gothot and in 3 seconds flamed up
lost in this
have also replaced the "brain box"
what next?