98 starter issue

[danielgreer]

thanks in advance for any insight! Just picked up a 1998 E350 automatic with the 7.3 Power Stroke. Started fine when I bought it, then it sometimes did sometimes didn't, and now it don't! The batteries are good in it and I have cleaned all the connections and replaced the solenoid (edit: relay in right fender) with one I know worked in the previous vehicle. The starter looks new. It starts when I jump it from the relay in the right fender, so the problem is between the key and there.

I thought maybe ignition switch but my Dad who has driven and worked on Ford trucks his whole life says he's never had to change one, and that there is more likely something stupid that we are missing. Any ideas? Any way to know for sure if it is the ignition switch?

thank you

[Chop]

Have you looked at maybe the nuetral safety set up ? Try starting in it in another gear position other than park.These columns have some torx screws that can become loose ,and or check the harness located on the side of transmission (don't recall the name ) ,this is where you will find the nuetral safety .

[danielgreer]

we did try starting it in neutral and no luck, should have mentioned that. I will check out that harness though, just in case. thanks!

[BigFuel]

Put the key in run. Jump the starter EDIT: relay on the right fender with a large (thick) screw driver between the two large posts. Does the truck crank/start? Yes, issue between key and relay. No, issue between relay and starter.

[madpogue]

Automatic or manual transmission? Are you jumping the _relay_ on the fender, or the _solenoid_ on the starter?

There's no relay in the junction box tied to the starter circuit.

[BigFuel]

Thank you for the correction. edited my post.

[danielgreer]

Yes, I guess I could have simplified that question if I worded it better. It will start when I jump it from the relay on the right fender, but I have nothing from the key. I'm not sure what to look for between the key and the relay. thanks!

Oh, and automatic transmission.

[madpogue]

Either the ignition switch or the neutral safety switch on the tranny. Try starting it in neutral. Also try moving the shifter around while you're holding the key in START, see if it reacts.