Help with Ignition problem in 1971 Mark III

[flashgordon]

I'm looking for some much needed help with an ignition problem in my 1971 Lincoln Mark III. I had to replace the ignition switch on the lower steering column but the key positions are not working right. The ignition switch has 4 positions which should match the key positions: lock, accessory, on, and start, in clockwise order. The Engine starts in the start position but won't shift into drive. Also, accessories come on in the lock position but not in the accessory position. I have taken apart the key switch and tried aligning the gear in different positions with the ignition switch, but no luck. I have considered the brake pedal switch, but since the tail lights come on, I'm assuming that's ok. I'm not sure where to go from here. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. I have spent a ton of time on this. Thank-you.

 

[Towervu]

There was a gentleman on here that had 75 of these cars at one time or another. Perhaps he could help. I know you really need help on this and have spent countless hours working. If anyone has any clue to help, even a shot in the dark, anything could help my friend flashgordon. HELP!

 

[Towervu]

Flashgordon here: Can any one tell me what are the ignition key positions on this 1971 Mark III? Does the key turn back 1 position and then forward 3 positions or does it turn forward in all 4 positions? Again, any help at all will be appreciated.

 

[mbertrand98]

Perhaps it might be the safety neutral switch?

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[mark95man]

Over the years, I owned a new 1970 + 75 of the 69, 70 & 71 models. All are gone now

Why did you have to replace the ignition switch? Was it brunt out? What was the brand name of part and it's part number.

FYI the 1969, 1970 & 1971 used different switches. And to confirm that we're referring to the same 1971 part---the ignition electrical switch is located on the lower steering column above the brake pedal area. It has the wiring to the starter & other connections.

As you turn the key to start the engine, the key via a gear pulls a rod connected to the ignition electrical switch. It sounds like the actual key gear was not in the proper position when the rod was connected to the ignition electrical switch.