1990 5.0 Won't Start: Help

[Joey P]

Yesterday my friend and I did the clutch in my car. We got everything put together, and then went to start it up. The solenoid was clicking but no start. So we messed around a little, couldn't get it. We changed the solenoid, messed around a little more. We got it to start by connecting the terminals on the solenoid together with a screwdriver. Otherwise, turn the key no start. Any ideas.

[85beast]

Did u check if the solenoidd bad or the batterys dead?

[Cobra Jet]

it's possible your ignition switch under the column is shorting - this is a very common problem in the Mustang Fox's as the years go by...

What eventually happens is the hard plastic connector deteriorates due to heat from the wiring system, in some instances, it will melt. This will cause the pinouts within the connector to touch each other, thus causing a short within the connector. You want to pull off your steering column plastics and look for the large ignition switch connector that is on IIRC, the left side of the column, about halfway down. Pull the connector apart and check for any melting, cracks, burns, etc... The plastic is sometimes brittle and MAY crack apart in your hand too...

Again, this is the actual switch - NOT the key lock cylinder on the column.

If you switch is deteriorated, you need to replace it - as these are also a source for potential fire hazards.

If and when doing the clutch job, did you by chance leave off the clutch neutral safety connector at the trans? Check at the trans and be sure all harnesses are connected and if connected, that none of the wires were cut or damaged when reinstalling the trans.

[Joey P]

Thanks everyone...wound up finding the problem. Believe it or not somehow in the 5 hours of doing the clutch the solenoid died. The battery was disconnected too!