Ignition Switch Connector Getting Hot With Blower Fan On High

modulistic · Jun 7, 2014

Anyone heard of this? While swapping my steering column (89 tilt into 92) I noticed the ignition in the 89 had partially melted, and the previous owner kinda ziptied it together. I used the ign from the 92 column. I just happened to be reaching down there troubleshooting something else, and that thing was hot. Shut off the fan and it cooled right down. The internet now has me throughly terrified of it starting on its own/burning to the ground, so I have disco'dthe battery cables. Anyone heard of this before?

stykthyn · Jun 7, 2014

Fairly common. Replacement units are cheap and not as prone to overheating.

jrichker · Jun 7, 2014

Recall on Ford Ignition switches:
Some of the symptoms of ignition switch problems are things that don’t work or are intermittent like radio, turn signals, wipers or heater.

There was a FREE recall on Ford ignition switches. They overheat and sometimes catch fire. That burns up the steering column and sometimes the car interior. Since this is very old information, you may not be able to get the switch replaced for free anymore. The auto parts stores sell the switches for $13-$15.

While you are working on the switch, check the wiring and connector closely. A replacement connector with new wiring pigtails is available from most auto parts stores

AutoZone and Advanced Auto Parts have the same Part Number: 434 - may have to order, not always in stock

Advanced Auto Parts alternate part number: PT5534

Saleen0679 was nice enough to dig this up for us awhile back: Replace a 1979-1993 Ignition Switch Assembly

Torx bit set from Advance Auto Parts

Autocraft torx bit set – have small hole in tip for tamper proof screws.
Part No. AC571/W1386 Cost approx. $12 +tax

Diagrams courtesy of Tmoss & Stang&2birds

Ignition switch wiring

Fuel, alternator, A/C and ignition wiring

modulistic · Jun 7, 2014

Damn nice info. That piece up top is the one i swapped over from the 92, but i will get a new one anyway, and also the connector. So the problem itself is the switch and possibly nothing downstream? I am surprised they route that much juice through the ignition switch... I guess to make it harder to hotwire. Man, I lucked out, that bastard was hot.

Thanks gents.

mikestang63 · Jun 7, 2014

Joe is a great source of information. Yes those switches are another "better idea" Ford had that was a fire hazard from the factory. Some pot metal holding a piece of plastic and connectors that melt. Much like the light/fog light switch, and stock alternator wiring.

Ignition Switch Connector Getting Hot With Blower Fan On High

modulistic

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stykthyn

I want to measure mine. It doesn't look that tall.

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modulistic

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Ignition Switch Connector Getting Hot With Blower Fan On High

modulistic

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I want to measure mine. It doesn't look that tall.

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