The Unofficial "Ask a Stupid Question" Thread

[Kidd-7]

Sounds like the ignition switch is starting to fail. I would replace it before it leaves you stranded.

Question: why are we blaming the ignition switch? He said that one symptom is that the radio presets are deleted, correct? If that's so, all power must be lost at least momentarily. I don't see how the ignition switch would cause that (?).

clarity: are you talking about the tumbler assembly the key goes into or an ignition control module?
I am curious how the tumbler / key assembly would cause my electrical symptoms.

 

[1997ThunderbirdLXV6]

The ignition switch is a white box attached to the bottom of the steering column, directly above that air duct that feeds that little knee vent.

 

[Kidd-7]

That makes more sense. Rock auto only lists the following for Ignition control module: HOLSTEIN 2IGM0032. I'll investigate elsewhere.

 

[XR7-4.6]

The ignition control module only controls the actual ignition that fires the spark plugs(96/97s don’t actually use one, it’s integrated into the PCM).

The ignition switch mechanically distributes power to various circuits throughout the car, so if there’s a bad contact in one of the circuits like keep alive power that can cause issues.

 

[1997ThunderbirdLXV6]

My original point was: the radio presets are safeguarded ("kept alive") by an always-on circuit, same as the clock. That circuit, to my knowledge, doesn't go through the ignition switch (?). Ergo, if loss of radio presets and clock setting are part of the symptoms, I would not blame the ignition switch.

Am I missing something here?