Ignition Switch?

[sandor]

Hey guys, My 1994 Q (110K)will turn over intermittently. If I keep turning the key it will eventually start perfectly. The lock and cylinder works fine and the battery is new. I can't find the diagnosis procedure in the FSM for the ignition switch. Before ordering one from Scottsdale, I wanted a second opinion. The only thing that has me puzzled is when I turn the key and hold it in the start position and the engine doesn't turn over, I hear the fuel pump run (like it's supposed to when the starter is engaged) and the relay under the dash clicks. So if the fuel pump knows it's in start mode, doesn't that mean the ignition switch is functioning?

Thanks for any help!

Sandor

P.S. Have any of you guys taken the switch apart to clean the contacts?

[Q451990]

Before you diagnose anything else, have someone else tap on the blue relay mounted to the right strut tower facing the firewall while you're having the non-start condition. Have the key pushed forward to the "start" position while they tap. If it starts, you've found your problem!

That's the starter relay, and it's a common failure item. The switch typically doesn't have problems like that - although sometimes it'll be hard to remove or insert the key due to wear.

Welcome to NICO!

Heath

[sandor]

Thanks Heath!I've actually been with you guys 3 years back to the old Yahoo site, but never needed help beyond searching old posts. I've only had to DIY the injectors, brakes, re-greased upper links, plugs, added rear stabilizer bar (Thanks for the tip Fred!), transmission pan drop etc.

Any other way to eliminate/confirm the switch as the culprit?

Sandor

[maxnix]

Have you changed the fuel filter lately? If you can hear your pump running, that is not a good omen in my book. It sounds like your starter motor is engaging, so I would look at the filter if it is, then the fuel pump next. Especially if there is any hesitation under full throttle once warmed, fuel starvation could be your problem.

[sandor]

Yup, I replace the filter regularly. Once the motor turns over, the car starts instantly and runs normally until turned off.

BTW, thanks Dennis for the tip on keeping the fuel pump coolerby refuelling at 1/4 tank.

Sandor