Background:

Bought a truck (87, 302) at an auction. Truck ran fine when I got it home. I had to put a screwdriver to the relay to start it, but it would start. Now I'm not getting any spark. I haven't check for fuel pressure yet, but so far here is where I'm at. EEC is out. I had a feeling it was a wiring issue. Pin number 16 isn't grounded (blk orange wire). I can get light out of everything else.

I've noticed that the Ignition Cylinder felt funny. Infact it will stay on the ''ON'' position, as it won't kick back by itsself. I'm trying to chase this black and orange wire, and I was hoping someone cold point me in the right direction. Any help, comments welcomed.

 

So I got ground to pin 16. Now I don't have power to pin 37 (vehicle power) and no ground to pin 40 (vehicle ground). I didn't check these previously either. Anyone?

 

Ignition switch. Has to be. Will update tomorrow if anyone's watching.

 

The ignition cylinder problem is common. Mine is very loose and the spring doesnt work anymore. I have it set up where it still turns to the on position but I have a push button to hit the starter. When you turn the key to the on position are you getting power to accessories and fuel pumps?

 

I know I'm getting power to the fuel pump. I'm not too sure about the accessories. A few lights are out, but I assumed it was because the truck was old. Also, the truck would stall, and run a bit rough as if it would sometimes struggle to get to speed. I originally thought it was bad or no gas, but I wasn't sure because the fuel guage was reading full. The battery would drain really fast if I left the key in the ignition. Everything has led me to the ignition switch so far. I had ordered another ignition lock cylinder because I thought mine was faulty, but apparently that is also a sympton of the ignition switch. Still debating if I should just swap it out. Nothing like trying to solve another man's problems without any reference point.

 

If in doubt, replace both parts. Especially since both are very cheap! My ignition switch was brittle to the point that it fell apart like breadcrumbs when I reached under the dash to remove it when I replaced it. The ignition switch is about $15 and the key cylinder is about $10.

 

Yea might aswell, I bought the lock cyl off ebay and it has already arrived. Is there an official guide for this precedure? I have an idea but the more info the better. Doing this tomorrow since it's my day off. Better start!