Neutral Safety Switch Problem? - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

MotorcityTbird · 05-26-2012, 11:25

Four times in the last month I've gone to start my '97 with 4.6 and got nothing. On second try it has started every time. The last time I was able to hold the ignition in the start mode and I jiggled the shift lever slightly and it fired up. From this I'm thinking I need a new switch.

If you agree, would someone be able to tell me where this switch is and how best to replace it?

I'm certainly open to other ideas as to the cause as well.

Thanks!

**jwko** · 05-26-2012, 14:53

I believe the neutral safety switch is part of the Transmission Range (TR) sensor which is located on the left side of the transmission. It could only need an adjustment. I'll let someone else with more knowledge comment further.

Quote:

REMOVAL

Disconnect battery ground cable.

NOTE: When the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, some abnormal drive symptoms may occur while the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) relearns its adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven 16 km (10 miles) or more to relearn the strategy.

Raise vehicle on hoist.
Disconnect electrical harness from Transmission Range (TR) sensor.
Remove two retaining bolts.
Remove TR sensor.

INSTALLATION

Make sure manual control lever is in NEUTRAL position.
Install TR sensor and loosely install retaining bolts.
Align TR sensor slots using TR Sensor Tool T93P-70010-AH.
Tighten retaining bolts to 7-10 Nm (5-7 lb ft) and remove tool.
Connect electrical harness to TR sensor.
Lower vehicle.
Connect battery ground cable.
Check for proper operation with parking brake control engaged. The engine should only start in PARK or NEUTRAL.

MotorcityTbird · 05-28-2012, 06:06

Thanks for the info. I assume the tool is for adjustment of the switch. I'll take a look and see what I can do without the tool.