RNORMAN

once I turn key to run position, it dies like I just turned off the key. stays running while in starter position on the key but the second it is in the run mode it dies.what could be the culpert.

The first time it died was while driving on the freeway and it acted like I just turned off the ignition. Wouldn't start till I got towed home a couple hours later and then it started and I drove it in the garage like nothing happened.

Andrew315

Sounds to me like an ignition switch.

wde3477

^+1 Located on the steering column just above the brake pedal. Mine had similar issues, on removal for inspection, the switch just fell apart.

RNORMAN

thanks guys.
It isn't just out in the open now is it? I can see it on top of the steering column.
bought one for about $20.00 and will install it soon.

much appreciated !!

RNORMAN

I replaced the ignition switch and it started right up. Drove 25 miles. restarted a couple of times no problem. let sit for about 4 hours, left to go home, went 1 mile died and wouldn't re-start.
Not sure what the problem is now. Engine has been rebuilt with new injectors and replaced computer, and I have a new coil and distributor to put in on a low miles rebuilt engine.
Old coil and distributor have almost 200,000 miles so I am thinking that is one of the only things left to replace. I am going to check for any loose grounds but that doesn't sound like it as it works and then doesn't.
If new coil and distributor doesn't work I am stumped.
Any other ideas what it could be? I also have twin gas tanks so I can switch between them to make sure it isn't fuel pump problem. another $90 bucks for towing today. getting expensive to tow this thing around. uggggg

88xlt

It's very common for the ignition module on the side of the distributor to just go dead on this vintage of Ford vehicles. I would suspect that first thing.

You need a special tool to R&R the ignition module, a sort of skinny nose socket. I would first check to make sure it's ignition(spark) that you have lost.

RNORMAN

thanks!
so putting a new distributor will fix this if that is the problem or is it some other part that attaches to the distributor?
I am on my way back up to try and get this thing running now. thanks for the info.

RNORMAN

thanks,
so putting in a new distributor will fix this or is that another part I need to get besides the distributor?
I has already bought one but didn't install it just yet. should have of course done this a long time ago.

88xlt

It depends on what you got for a NEW distributor. Some actually NEW distributors come with the ignition module. A rebuilt distributor likely won't come with an ignition module on it. The ignition module is held to the side of the distributor by 2 small recessed bolts, thus the need for the special tool.

I would try briefly starting the truck now after it has sat if you haven't began tearing it apart yet. Sometimes ignition components will go dead and work again later, this usually isn't the case with the ignition module though.

I would check and make sure it is spark that you have lost before tearing anything apart though.

RNORMAN

The new distributor came with the module and I bought a new summit, brass terminal cap and a standard replacement coil and installed them today. Just got back through Seattle's rush hour traffic with no problems so I am now pretty sure it was the module gone bad.
It ran fine even with a load in the bed.
It needed the new distributor a while back when I installed the rebuilt 300. Just didn't have the funds to get it back then.
I will put a light on it later to get the timing closer but I was out 25 miles from home so basically, the truck left me stranded twice this month. But it is only third time on a hook in the last 150,000 miles. I have rebuilt most of the truck just recently including new paint which just fell off from the original factory water based primers during this area.

Thanks for all the response. Trial and error with your help got it done!