Starter Problems

[Psydwaze]

Recently my starter would continue to run after the key has been turned off. I replaced both the starter and the fender mounted solenoid/relay. It did it again yesterday which resulted in me having to disconnect the cable at the solenoid that runs to the starter because the solenoid started to smoke a bit and the cable to the starter and the negative battery cable were getting very hot. Push started the car then proceeded to drive home but now the motor won't rev past 4k.

Checked with meter:
Solenoid lead to starter reads negative with small top post lead disconnected.
Small lead reads 12v with key cranking but sometimes shows 2-3v with the key off. This isn't good. I know the ignition triggers this but is their another component that this circuit runs through that could also be giving me trouble? Do I have to change the actual ignition switch at the column that the key goes into or is there an electronic component in the column?

Would the TFI have anything to do with this?

Any info or stories would be helpful.

 

[HISSIN50]

the slide-on connector comes from the ignition switch, goes through the clutch safety switch and goes to the solenoid, IIRC. i would check the ignition switch to ensure it did not begin to meltdown, allowing the starter interlock circuit to be getting a little bit of juice when it should not.
here are some diagrams, courtesy of S&2B's (site host) and TMoss (diagram author):

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

http://www.veryuseful.com/mustang/tech/engine/images/fuel-alt-links-ign-ac.gif



good luck.

 

[1989monstang]

My car did the same exact thing and I replaced the selonoid on the fender. My old selonoid was rattling on the inside if I shook it after I took it off. Try replacing that first.

 

[jrichker]

There is a FREE recall on Ford ignition switches. They 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. The TSB is #95S28, and don't let them tell you that they don't do that anymore...

 

[WhiteHeat306]

Same thing happened to me. I replaced the solenoid about a month ago and it fixed the problem, then it started to act up a week ago. I replaced the solenoid again, and the starter, alternator, and new positive battery cable and it seems to be fixed.