Ignition switch problems

[Beans]

Hello everyone, long time no post! Been busy working and saving money and haven't had much time to cruise the forum!

Basically, I parked my car last evening, came out about 3 hours later and tried to start the car. No go. The dash lights worked, headlights worked, etc. Basically everything except the engine turning over. Nothing, no grinding, no whines, nothing to even insinuate that the starter was trying to do something. I assumed it was the starter, but upon further inspection I've realized it could possibly be the ignition switch! I opened up the steering column and located what I believe to be the wires for the "START" position. I tested for continuity and found there to be continuity while the switch was on "ON" but none when I switched it to "START" (pretty sure at least, I'm not so good with a multimeter...).

My question is, Is it possible to hard wire in a switch so I can bypass turning the key to start and can just press a button instead? I can't find a new or used ignition switch for a 1993 for festiva anywhere and I figure that's basically the same idea...

I'm gonna talk to a friend I know that is a mechanic and maybe get him to take a look and confirm my suspicions, but I'd still like to know what you guys think!

[festfull]

Have you checked the fusible links?

[Beans]

Sure have, they are all good. I had an issue with the fusible links a while ago and when the main link was blown there would be no power to anything. In this case there is power to the radio, lights, etc. just the car refuses to turn over. All three fusible links appear to be in good condition.

I've narrowed it down to either the starter, ignition switch or some wire/connection between the two. Mind you I could still be wrong...

[doi_doi]

staRter relay maybe?

[WmWatt]

try spraying WD-40 into the keyhole

[econoaddict]

Clutch switch?
Small wire fell off at the solenoid?

[Beans]

Okay, so I had a friend who is a mechanic step me through the process of checking what the issue is. Turns out it's the switch when you put the transmission into park! For the time being I have just jumpered the connection down near the transmission.

I want to just install an on/off switch (maybe an LED too!) inside the car so I can break the connection once the car is running (so I don't accidentally start the car in reverse or something!)

Does anyone know where the park switch is located so I can bypass it and install my own switch?

Thanks for the replys everyone!

[Mike McKown]

I'd say if you adjust your shift linkage, you'll fix your problem. If it won't start in Park, will it start in neutral or if you jiggle the shifter a little?

If you don't get an answer where the switch is from somebody, I'll look in the manual after bit and see what's up with it.

If it's like some other cars, you can just tie the two wires together but you'd be a lot safer if you ran the start circuit through the switch as designed.

[funky technician]

not sure if its an auto or not, but if it is, it's likely those 3 connectors at the base of the tranny, they are electrical interlocks for the start circuit, i had the same issue, and found one of the connectors had a broken wire, soldered it back, and it worked fine! hope this helps, good luck

[funky technician]

Have you ever finialized this fix, i had a problem this morning, it would start, just turned the dash lights on and the E brake light came on with them, but no noise, so it probibly the interlock for the ATX, do you know what wires they are so i can just splice them together and be mindful not to start it in drive? LOL
Thanks

[windy1]

i just bought an ignition switch. off e bay. u can find one. iy could be the neutral safty switch,also.u,could have a loose wire,on the switch? dont sound like.its absolutely,ignition switch.an ignition switch,usually develops a dead spot.,on electrical part. got enough battery? good luck,dude. mdoyleufo@gmail.com