redidbull

Hello all, I am new to this site and to F150s. I had a 79 F100 back in the day but this is going to be a project truck. I had it towed to my house because no plates and it had sat for a while and I was worried about brakes but the PO drove it to my garage guy just around the corner from him. I didn't drive it before I bought it because I plan to replace alot and the body had that farm look and I want to leave it that way. First problem is it will not start. It was running when I saw it and running good. If I hold the key in the run position it runs but if I let go it stalls. I was able to move it into my driveway last night holding the key forward. I have read a bunch about this problem and there are many theory's. Any help would be appreciated. There are also a few connectors and hoses not connected. I will post pics later. Thanks in advance. Jim

88xlt

So what year truck is it you have now, another 1979 or?

redidbull

Sorry about that,, it is an 89, 5.0, auto. Here are 2 of the unhooked connectors. Thanks. Jim

redidbull

Here are the other 2 things open ended. Jim

88xlt

I don't recognize the connectors but I don't think they are part of the problem.

You probably just need to adjust the ignition switch, ie slide it closer to the steering wheel. To adjust the switch, remove the plastic cowling from around the steering column, 2 philips head screws accessible from the bottom side. The actual electrical part of the switch is a few inches ahead of the key tumbler, loosen a screw on each side and slide the switch toward the steering wheel. I can't remember if you have to drop the steering column to do this, if so it's pretty simple.

redidbull

I tried to start the truck today and instead of starting it and letting the key snap back quickly I eased in to the run position and it ran fine. I am pretty sure yo are 100% correct with the switch out of adjustment. Thanks for the help. Jim

wde3477

Suggest to have a good look at the ignition switch, located on the steering column just above the brake pedal. These have been known to fail, with the plastic housing crumbling and falling apart. A good sign of a potential problem is that the ignition key is extremely easy to roll, without the noticeable detents at the Off and Run positions.