'90 T-Bird electrical probs - Ignition switch?

Relpace the ignition switch in the steering column. The switches of that era were not quite as good as they should have been and yours has seen a lot of action in 15 years. It is not a difficult job but having a manual with you makes it a lot easier. The part is not terribly expensive, either. I think even the cheap Haynes or Motors books will show it but look it up before you buy the book just to be sure. The local library may also have manuals, you could photocopy the pages about this.

PoD

There was a recall on that year T-bird that also affected my 90 Escort. The ignition switch was replaced with a revised design, the number was

Subject: Safety Recall 95S28 - Ignition Switch Replacement

^ All 1989-1990 Model Year Escort

^ All 88 EXP

^ All 1988-1993 Model Year Mustang Build date thru Sept. 30, 1992

^ All 1988-1993 Model Year Thunderbird and Cougar Build date thru Sept. 30, 1992

^ All 1988-1993 Model Year Tempo and Topaz Build date thru Sept. 30, 1992

^ All 1988-1989 Model Year Crown Victoria and Grand Marquis

^ All 1988-1989 Model Year Lincoln Town Car

^ All 1988-1991 Model Year Aerostar

^ All 1988-1991 Model Year Bronco and F-Series Light Trucks

In OASIS: Yes

Listings: Yes

Parts Return: No

Recall Time Limitation: None

^ Please read and circulate these instructions to your Service and Parts personnel.

^ Dealership personnel should become familiar with this recall and be able to respond to owner inquiries.

^ Please ensure servicing technicians understand and comply with the technical instructions for this recall.

Affected Vehicles

There are approximately 248,000 vehicles affected by this action.

Reason For Recall

On some of the affected vehicles, a short circuit could develop in the ignition switch that could lead to overheating, smoke, and possibly fire in the steering column area of the vehicle. The condition may occur while the vehicle is in use or unattended.

Service Action

To correct this potential condition, the ignition switch will be replaced with a revised design switch. The wiring in the upper steering column area will also be inspected for the installation of any aftermarket electrical accessories. If an improper installation is noted, you are to advise the customer of the need to have the condition corrected. These correction costs are not part of this recall.

Refunds

Only for owner/dealer-paid ignition switch replacements and made before receipt of the owner letter or after receipt of the owner letter if an emergency replacement was made away from the selling dealer.

NOTE :Refund requests concerned in any manner with fire-related damage are to be forwarded on a goodwill facsimile request form, for review, to the Customer Assistance Centre at 1-800-387-7988. Retain original supporting documentation in your records.

Thanks, guys.

I went to the NHTSA website & got the ignition recall info there. For any who might read this later, the "Ford Campaign Number" is 95S28, and the "NHTSA Recall Number" is 96V0071000. It applies to a bunch of different Ford models from 1988-1993. No mileage or warantee limitations.