1995 Aerostar XLT. I need help with various issues.

[stonedmonster]

Hello new to the site I have a 95 Aerostar XLT shorty she runs good but has a few problems I need help addressing as I don't wanna fix things I don't need to maybe someone can help. The problems are:

1. speedo and interior lights not working.

2. when I got the van nothing worked when I would turn the key but the guy had it set up so you got a power switch and a starter button. So when you start it you got to turn the switch on turn the key on and push the the starter button. I have no changed anything it works but I don't like it.

3. My shifter is really loose you never know what gear your in and it won't go into park but I can get under it and push it into park. (I start it in neutral)

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum!

1. Check the fuses.

2. It's possible to disconnect these things, and use the OEM ignition switch with a key.

3. It sounds like the previous owner played with the the shift interlock machanism.

 

[stonedmonster]

I have checked all my fuses there good both my speedo/odometer stoped working the same time as my lights on the inside, someone told me that it could be a relay but I have no idea. Would I just replace the lock cylinder and take off all the extra stuff he installed? I don't know I have heard a lot about shifters being loose on fords around 95 but nothing on how to fix it.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Check the power going into the PSOM module for the speedometer, and the switch on the dashboard for the interior light. Do you have an ignition cylinder or was that removed? The shift interlock actuator is under the steering column under the dashboard.

 

[stonedmonster]

Okay I will check power to it as soon as I get a chance. The light knob/switch seems to work fine and be in good shape but sill no lights, bulbs and fuses are good. Im thinking is something electrical because they went out at the same time when someone was messing with my stereo wires (no stereo just wires) and something arced or something. There is a ignition cylinder it works (as long as the power switch is on) as it should but when you turn it to start nothing happens so i have to use the starter button. Do i have to remove the steering colom to fix the shift interlock actuator?

 

[BrooklynBay]

No, the actuator is under the column, and is easy to reach. I would suggest that you get an electrical manual, and follow the color codes to repair the defective wiring. It sounds like the previous owner cut into a lot of things in the column to add his own accessories. If this turns out to be a big hassle, then it might be easier to get a column from the junkyard, and transfer your ignition cylinder into it.

 

[stonedmonster]

I Fixed the loose shifter one of the screws was missing out of the metal piece that is attached to the shift tube. I tracked all the wires from the starter button and the power switch they are ran to the starter solenoid but they go through the access panel behind the cup holder so its really easy to take off but when I do it wont start and gets no power. I took out my cluster and cleaned all my connections but still no speedo/odometer or lights this is my biggest problem I need my speedo =(

 

[BrooklynBay]

Did you check to see if there is power going into the PSOM module?

 

[stonedmonster]

No I did not, what one do i check the small one that goes directly to the speedo? i also noticed that the connector that goes to my dimmer/headlight switch is a little melted but my headlights work fine just no door or roof lights.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Unplug that connector, and see if you could jump the contacts with a wire to get the interior lights to turn on. Check this link for information about the PSOM: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/search.php?searchid=8018284

 

[stonedmonster]

Success the connection was just really dirt cleaned it up and it worked again thanks for all the help

 

[rv4fun]

I recommend "di-electric" grease on all electrical connections and light bulb bases. It keeps them from corroding and makes them easier to put together and take apart. It's great stuff! I find a good sized tube of the Permatex brand at AutoZone for $6. Keep a tube handy in shop for future needs.

 

[mmerlinn]

Unplug that connector, and see if you could jump the contacts with a wire to get the interior lights to turn on. Check this link for information about the PSOM: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/search.php?searchid=8018284

I get the following error when I click your link:

Sorry - no matches. Please try some different terms.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Here's a list of links to check:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=312793
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=312806
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=307125