"EADGBE" > wrote in message
...
>
> I am having a weird problem with my 1996 Mustang GT.
>
> Over the past year, I have installed a new battery, alternator, and
> starter (two of them), cleaned and lubricated the ignition lock
> cylinder, AND checked all of the related wiring in an attempt to solve
> the problem, but no success so far.
>
> The problem is this: Every once in a while, when I turn the key to
> start the car, all I will get is a click. The car will not turn
> over. HOWEVER, if I keep turning the key, eventually the car does
> start again, as if nothing at all was wrong.
>
> There is NO pattern to when this occurs. The car can go for weeks
> with NO problem at all, and then I might experience the problem twice
> in one day, only to have the car return to normal the next day.
>
> It doesn't matter if the car is hot or cold. The problem has happened
> when the car is first started up in the morning, AND it has also
> happened in the middle of the day, when the car has been driven around
> and the engine is nice and hot.
>
> It has happened in wet weather and in dry weather.
>
> Could it be my ignition switch? I know that it obviously sounds like
> it might be the switch, but I am simply wondering if this has been a
> somewhat common problem with other Mustangs or Fords.
>
> I am also hesitant to spend the money on a new switch if someone has a
> viable alternative. After all, I have already replaced other major
> links in the chain and gotten nowhere.
>
> So, even though it might obviously be the ignition switch, I wanted to
> make this post just to get other opinions.
>
> Thanks in advance for any help you folks could offer.....
>
>

I would check the solenoid first, it's the most common problem with these
symptoms. The copper contacts burn out over time, often in one spot. There
is a disk that rotates, so that if you keep trying it will move to a good
spot it will eventually start, if the contacts and washer are partly burned.
Given more time, the solenoid will not make contact at all. It will still
click though. This is also a normal failure on Harley Davidsons, which use
an automotive style solenoid. A rebuild kit is available for Harleys, which
reduces the cost. No such luck with cars.


Steve R.