Random starting issue.

[Baxman]

This just started about a week ago. I turn the key and nothing happens. No indicator light, no dings nothing. I wiggle the gear shift lever or key a few times and she fires. I have noticed that I have to help the key back a little so it stops cranking every now and then. Should I look at the gear shift lever or key assembly?

I'm leaning to the key assembly but have no clue where to start. Help?


2001 Crew 4X4
auto
196,000 mile
New battery's, Alt, belt last year.

Thanks Bax

[NoRalPh]

It's gotta be the Key cylinder if nothing happens on the dash....

[Baxman]

Hey thanks. Do I need a manual to take the steering column apart and how about parts? OEM, junk yard, Parts store.
I guess I have to have a new key.

Bax.

[NoRalPh]

Well, there are two parts to this.

One is the Key Cylinder that rotates with the key to activate the Ignition SW.

The other is the Ignition SW itself.

First you need to remove the lower "clam shell" from around the column (3 screws from the bottom) and there is a rectangular box with two torx screws (white or beige as I remember). That is the switch.

To take to rest of the column cover off and pull the Key Cly, look at this ->

99-03 OD wire fix

and this->

https://4656923915310766587-a-180274...attredirects=0

Check your OD wires while you're in there

[Baxman]

Thanks NoRalph. I'll try that. Good info in there. And my OD doesn't work either. Is there any grease that needs to applied to the switch while I have it out?

Bax