Ignition No Power

[NateHTP]

1996 Ford Hurricane 30'
All of a sudden, today, when I turn the key I get no power. Nothing on accessory mode, and nothing at all when I try to start the engine.

I know these old Ford's aren't the most complicated things in the world... would anyone have ideas on how to start tracing this back to somewhere? Alas there are no fuse diagrams here to work with.

Thanks so much, community. I'm counting on your help

[Bob Denman]

Did you check your chassis battery connections? While you're under there: check the battery's condition too.

[NateHTP]

Originally Posted by Bob Denman

Did you check your chassis battery connections? While you're under there: check the battery's condition too.

Oh, interesting. This could be a ground issue for my battery. I think I've seen similar thing happen on my old honda - I was able to test if this is is the issue by running a jumper from ground on batter to fresh ground spot. I'll try this!

[NateHTP]

Darn. I wish it had been that simple.
Ground / battery connections are good. Battery is full.
I think it's something in my ignition?

[Bob Denman]

The fact that it's almost 25 years old does add a lot of possibilities to the pile.
It might be time to let an expert have a look at it. Good luck!

[NateHTP]

Originally Posted by Bob Denman

The fact that it's almost 25 years old does add a lot of possibilities to the pile.
It might be time to let an expert have a look at it. Good luck!

Pumped for the possibilities and figuring it out.
If I can fix everything else on this RV with help from this forum, I'm sure I can fix this!

[NateHTP]

Here's some more evidence:
- Headlights work great.
- When turning key to accessory, there's no power (no sounds, literally nothing). Previously accessory mode would turn on dash lights, etc.
- When turning key to start, there's no power/start of engine.
- Cruise control controls on steering wheel have never worked as long as I've owned this.

[Bob Denman]

Short in the ignition switch?

[NateHTP]

Originally Posted by Bob Denman

Short in the ignition switch?

Yeah good idea. Talking a pretty big tear down of the steering column looking for a short. Trying to think of anything else it could be first or at least before doing that job, hoping someone else has done it before and can give me pointers.

[Lt Keefer]

Go to youtube and look up a channel named South Main Auto. He has tons of videos on diagnosing no crank, no start problems with cars and trucks. You may find one that is useful in helping you diagnose your problem.

[NateHTP]

Originally Posted by Lt Keefer

Go to youtube and look up a channel named South Main Auto. He has tons of videos on diagnosing no crank, no start problems with cars and trucks. You may find one that is useful in helping you diagnose your problem.

Thank you! I'll do this right away. I don't know how I'm gonna meet any hot babes with a dead RV gotta get this thing fixed

[Bob Denman]

It's the start of a new year, and the World is full of possibilities...
Get it fixed quickly!

[NateHTP]

Tried to start it using the house batteries. Same result.

[abjbrtd]

Originally Posted by Bob Denman

Short in the ignition switch?

Doesn't sound like a short, sounds more like an open .

NateHTPs description does sounds like a bad ignition switch.

Take a look at this from Autozone , might help.

ABOUT

IGNITION SWITCH

Get the Right Parts for Your Ignition Repairs
The ignition switch makes it possible to start the engine in a vehicle. A malfunctioning or failed ignition switch may prevent a car or truck from starting, cause the engine to stall or result in electrical problems. AutoZone has the lowest prices on ignition switches from trusted brands such as Duralast, Locksmart and ACDelco.

Diagnosing a Failing Ignition Switch
The ignition switch turns on when you insert a key into the ignition, use a push button starting system or remotely start a vehicle. This switch sends signals to activate critical vehicle systems. As a result, a failing switch may lead to a variety of electrical problems, including a complete loss of power. Newer vehicles rely heavily on electronics, and a failing ignition switch may cause more than one system to malfunction.

If a vehicle stalls without indications of power loss, the ignition switch may be failing. If contacts are not made, open circuits may prevent a vehicle from starting. Start by checking the condition of the fuse and testing the voltage of the battery. If the engine does not crank and you also do not hear a click, the ignition switch could be the source of the problem. If you need to replace this important component today, search or browse for ignition switches near me at AutoZone.

How To Replace the Switch
The ignition switch may be located on the steering column or in the dash. You must first remove covers or panels in order to gain access to the switch. Be sure to install a memory saver to prevent computer memory loss before dismantling this switch in a newer vehicle. Loosen the negative battery cable and make sure that it cannot make contact while you remove and replace a faulty ignition switch.

Once you have gained access to the ignition switch, avoid tampering with yellow airbag wiring. It may also be necessary to remove the key lock cylinder in order to disconnect the ignition switch. Remove any bolts or press locking tabs to release the switch.

Insert and align the new switch before bolting it in or fastening the tabs. Reattach the electrical connector. If you have removed the key cylinder in order to access the switch, you must reinstall this component. Reinstall the steering column cover or dash panel before you reconnect the negative battery cable and remove the computer memory saver.

https://www.autozone.com/batteries-s...witch/ford/f53

[NateHTP]

Originally Posted by abjbrtd

Doesn't sound like a short, sounds more like an open .

NateHTPs description does sounds like a bad ignition switch.

Take a look at this from Autozone , might help.

Good thinking! Thanks for the link.

So... I was checked all the fuses on the firewall on the left below the steering wheel. After I did this, my 4-ways worked again. Huh?

Then I took two plastic covers off of my steering column to look in there and see what I could fine. When doing this I had the key in the ignition and all of a sudden the ignition just FELL OUT into my hand. WTF?

[NateHTP]

Here are some more pics of the ignition that fell out into my hand:

[NateHTP]

I've never dealt with this sort of issue before. I'm pretty good at mechanical, wiring, etc. - but steering columns and ignition / keys is a new world for me.

I'd appreciate some advice... could this be my problem?

[The_Breeze]

I don't think it should have fell out in your hand. The grease is normal. The rest isn't.

I can't see, in the pics, what 'used to' hold it in the column but are you sure it didn't get hot and melt something or someone tried to rip it off (bump the lock)?

See if you have juice running to the switch. Find the wires. There should be 4. Acc, start, on. and ground (unless it's grounded to the chassis, then only 3).

As Bob said, it's 2021. If you find hot babes somewhere, PM me

[NateHTP]

Originally Posted by The_Breeze

I don't think it should have fell out in your hand. The grease is normal. The rest isn't.

I can't see, in the pics, what 'used to' hold it in the column but are you sure it didn't get hot and melt something or someone tried to rip it off (bump the lock)?

See if you have juice running to the switch. Find the wires. There should be 4. Acc, start, on. and ground (unless it's grounded to the chassis, then only 3).

As Bob said, it's 2021. If you find hot babes somewhere, PM me

It's a push-button that holds it in. I've found it and been able to make it stay in, or pop out if I push it.

Good idea to check the power/wires. I'll get on that.

[Bob Denman]

This might be your best shot at learning how to hot-wire a car...