I have a 1988 f150 that when I turn the key on every thing is normal the dashlighs radio and every thing comes on but when I turn the key it wont start doesnt even crank the motor at all but when I go to the sylinoid and put a screw driver across the terminals it starts right up when the key is on. I have been trying to figure out what this is for years it has always had problems similar to that it use to be It would start when I tilted the wheel but know that doesnt even work. I use to also use to have a problem where when I started it it would keep cranking even if I turned the key off that turned out to be the ignition switch. I thought it might be something in the steering column so I put another steering column out of another truck that I know for sure workes fine and it does the same thing I have also checked all the fuses. I cant figure out what this is and would appreciate any help thanks

 

Maybe the neutral safety switch (assuming automatic)?

 

have you changed the starter relay already? since it sometimes keeps cranking this could be bad. option to test is look if there is voltage on it when someone turns the key for you.
i have the same problem that it keeps cranking so in advance i already ordered a new relay.

 

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Well it couldnt be the neutral safety switch becuase it does the same thing with a diffrent steering column and I know that steering column works perfect becuase it was just in another truck and it worked fine in that one and the starter relay is brand new the ignition switch is what caused it to keep cranking thats fixed its just that it doesnt start with the key any more it will only start at the sylinoid thanks for the help though

 

i would check the whole starting circuit, if everything gets power, if you have a manual look a the schematics.

 

That switch isn't part of the column - it's on the trans."New" isn't the same thing as "good". Test power & ground on the relay, and make sure you have the wires arranged correctly.

 

Ok I will look at that thanks alot

 

I had the same problem when I bought my truck. My problem was the ground cable. The battery wasn't grounded good.

 

Over 3 years later, I hope the problem has been fixed.