a couple of times when i went to start my truck i turned the key and it went all the way to the "start" position but nothing happened. the key didnt even spring back, it just stayed there. after i cycle the key back and forth a few times it magically starts working again. what gives?


thanks,
Karsten.

 

Sounds like the ignition switch is dying. If you have a tilt column it's super easy to change.

 

Could also be the piece on the end of the lock cylinder that's supposed to engage the ignition switch. I've seen a few of them break.

 

hmm, my truck is pretty fancy schmansy, and does have a tilt column. i need to gets me a one a them mechanics work books fer ma truck so's i can learn how to takes it apart.

 

I have a 92, 318 and had to change the switch a couple times the last few years. I think they designed a **** poor one, but I think it was only about $45.00 for a new one, and I think I didn't even have to go to dodge to get it.

 

The bushing on my clutch lever is worn so if I don't stab the clutch down real hard it acts like the switch is bad. This gave me fits one lonely night until I figured out what was wrong.

Ediwn

 

jeep... i just replaced mine and wanna is right its simple. you need a small torx scredriver so take out the inset screws on the cover. and there is one more on the bottom of the column. unscrew the tilt lever and pop the plastic covers off. there are 2 or 3 tamper proof screw holding the switch in place if no one has changed it yet. take a small awl and knock out the center pin and then unscrew them. the new switch comes with some regular philips screws so you can beat up the ones you take out as much as you want. i suggest going to autozone for the part. they had it for like $28.. advance was $65 and oreilly was $45... the lock cylinder is easy to get out. have fun, it's not too hard!

 

thanks for the info guys

all i have around me are autozone, kragen, pepboys, and a few mom n' pop places. i prefer to give my business to the ma n' pa people just as long as they are'nt crabby old bastards! whats up with that anyway?

 

I had to replace my switch a few months ago. A guy told me that a heavy key chain is hard on the switch. Don't know for sure about that but I lightened mine anyway.

 

hmm, maybe i should take off the .45 acp and those mystery keys!

 

That's true on a setup where the lock cylinder is directly in the switch like a Dodge. I have a key ring with just the truck key and the key for the bed box, all my other keys are on another ring along with a spare truck key. That way if I lock the key in the truck I still have a key on me.