Logan McDaniel

I have a 2000 F150 with the 5.4. Several times over the last few months I would get in, turn the key and have full power, go to start it and dead as can be. If I juggled the key and/or gear shifter around it would eventually start.

Now I cannot get it to start at all. Turn the key on and have full power, turn the key over and get a single click and then everything goes dead.

What the hell is going on?

Jbrew

Leave the key in run, cross the solenoid w/screwdriver. If it starts, the problem is most likely under the column or adjustment under the column. It loosened up. I forget what it's called.

jprevat

iTrader: (1)

If the click is coming from the solenoid of the firewall of the engine bay and it starts when crossed it may very well be a possibility too. Check your battery connections first though.

akdoggie

What he said. ^^^^^

Jbrew

I agree, don't do what I said, you could blow up!

whomrig

this sounds like maybe nothing more than a loose connection, so as mentioned, check all connections

Jbrew

Anyway sounds like your having the same problem I did 3 weeks back. That little test I posted after your post will determine which way to troubleshoot narrowing it down. I would preform that procedure first to give you direction. This will tell which way to go without wasting time cleaning all the connections if there's no need.

Like I said, mine did the exact same, used that method in determining for sure. There are two bolts underneath the steering column that holds the shifter tube to the column. These are known to loosen. This will make it hard to find right spot to get it to start. Tightened them up and I haven't had a problem since.

In addition to the torx-headed bolts loosening, there are bushings in the shift tube that wear out and cause excessive play in the shifter linkage.

Excessive play in the shift linkage will keep the shift lever from placing the transmission fully into PARK which will also prevent the transmission from starting when you think it's in PARK.

rsylvstr

Updates?
I had the same problem.
Turned out to be my starter which has the solenoid mounted on it.
The one under the hood on the firewall I replaced too.
That wasn't it.