Topic: Starting Engine with Key

[Mark69Sportsroof]

Hi Everyone,

Well I started my next project which is the 68 Mercury Park Lane convertible.  The car has been sitting in a junk yard since 1984.  Everything is original except for the radio.   I got the engine running by using a jumper switch on the starter relay.  There was no key so I replaced the ignition switch.  I have power with the accessory and the on positions.  When I try to start it with the key I get nothing.

Once I start it with the jumper switch then I can turn it off with the key.  All the wiring looks serviceable.  Any suggestions on why it won't start with the key?

Thanks Mark

[jwc66k]

First, you should always list the equipment, like an automatic transmission which would have the starting voltage routed thru the neutral safety switch to the solenoid. If that isn't the problem, the starting circuit wire is red with a blue tracer, common on all domestic Fords. Take the back connector block off of the ignition switch and see if that red-blue wire has continuity to the solenoid (battery disconnected). It may take two people. If there's continuity, it may be the switch.
Jim

[Mark69Sportsroof]

Thanks Jim.  It does have the C6 transmission.  I will check the neutral safety switch.  Mark

[Mark69Sportsroof]

Started the car today with the key for the first time.  I had to jump it at the starter relay.  Thanks to Jim, I checked the neutral switch and found it to be broken.  I bypassed the neutral switch and jumped the wires at the wiring harness.  Car started right up by turning the key.  After I got home today my new (used) neutral switch came in the mail.  Thanks Mark