Blinkers and AC Blower No Worky

[bretamo]

I had my turn signal blinkers and the AC Motor shut down at the same time yesterday.

Haven't had time to check the fuse box yet.

When I go to turn on the AC, and I move the AC to "MAX", the vacuum controlled door under the glove box doesn't work, so I fear this is more than just the circuit to the AC blower motor.

What's the prognosis? Is the blinker issue related to the AC issue? Is it a ka-winky-dink that they both went out at the same time?

 

[jrichker]

Diagram courtesy of Tmoss & Stang&2birds

If the fuses are good, replace the ignition switch. . They go bad and cause strange problems. There was a recall on them, but you might find it difficult to get it done for free. Most auto parts stores will sell the switch for $13-$15.

Also check the ignition switch wiring connector for loose pins that may have backed out of the plastic shell. Once they back out, they quit making good contact with the switch.

Recall information on ignition switches.
The ignition switches overheat and sometimes catch fire. Copy down you VIN number and call the Ford dealer nearest you. Tell them you want to see if the ignition switch recall for Fords & Mustangs was done on your car. They will ask for the VIN number & check it against the master database. If it isn't in the database, then you can schedule an appointment to have the switch replaced for free(maybe). The TSB is #95S28.

See the following website for some help from Tmoss (diagram designer) & Stang&2Birds (website host) for help on 88-95 wiring http://www.veryuseful.com/mustang/tech/engine/

Ignition switch wiring
http://www.veryuseful.com/mustang/tech/engine/images/IgnitionSwitchWiring.gif

Fuel pump, alternator, ignition & A/C wiring
http://www.veryuseful.com/mustang/tech/engine/images/fuel-alt-links-ign-ac.gif

Computer, actuator & sensor wiring
http://www.veryuseful.com/mustang/tech/engine/images/88-91_5.0_EEC_Wiring_Diagram.gif

Fuse panel layout
http://www.veryuseful.com/mustang/tech/engine/images/MustangFuseBox.gif

Vacuum routing
http://www.veryuseful.com/mustang/tech/engine/images/mustangFoxFordVacuumDiagram.jpg

 

[TomT_90GT]

Ignition switch replacement - tips?

Thanks to earlier replies, I too have narrowed down the likely cause of my blinker and blower motor problems to an ignition switch going bad.

I'm wondering if jrichker or others may have detailed instructions for replacing this? I've done some searching and it doesn't sound too complicated, but I'm a little concerned as I think I remember reading a warning about disconnecting the battery and draining the capacitor to the airbag. Don't want THAT popping off in my face when I change this gizmo out! And can someone confirm for a 1990 GT if I'll need to pick up a special bit for an anti-theft torx, or if I'll only need normal tools to get at this switch?

By the way, I tried calling both my local Ford dealer and emailing customer service about this "recall". The only info either gave out was that there was no active recall for my car... no info as to whether the previous owner took it in for replacement or if they are just saying it doesn't apply to my car. It is probably better I just do it myself anyway for the low cost, rather than trust the car to a dealer.

Thanks. These forums are a lifesaver for getting good info.

 

[Saleen0679]

Geared more toward 87-89 but will give you an idea of what's involved.

http://www.mustangmonthly.com/howto/5657/

 

[HISSIN50]

Tom, FWIW, a cheap set of tamper-proof torx bits are about 10 bucks. Generally speaking, items on the car requiring those bits are not super reefed-down (stripping concerns) so I havent had an issue with the cheapies.