ignition switch or something else?

[Grabber5.0]

Having an intermittent problem lately with the van. I'm trying to determine for sure if it is the ignition switch or if it might be something else. On occasion, the start circuit is energized when the key is in the run position. This causes the starter to try to engage the flexplate while the engine is running. I think I ruled out the neutral safety switch because when the shifter is anywhere but park or neutral it kills the start circuit. One strange symptom that makes it seem mechanical rather than electrical is that when it is acting up, sometimes letting the hood slam shut will either initiate the problem or make it stop. I discovered this when I first had an opportunity to try to diagnose it while my wife was in the van and I could have her turn the key on/off.

[12Ounce]

When you twist the key ... is there a great deal of resistance? The key tumbler is hooked to a long slender actuator rod that connects to the switch box. The switch is a plastic box several inches down inside the steering column cover. It should have a easy feel as the actuator slides inside the box.

Otherwise, the starter motor itself may be the culprit. It has a return-spring mechanism that may be failing.

[Grabber5.0]

Well, I do feel a bit of resistance when I turn the key, but I haven't paid enough attention to notice if that is different than it has ever felt or not. It does feel a bit sticky though.

I did initially think starter. However, the fact that the starter does not try to engage the flexplate when the van is in gear is making me think it's not in the starter. The N/S switch seems to be cutting off the signal from the ignition switch to the starter when it is supposed to. I would think if the solenoid on the starter was stuck on, it would do it regardless of the position of the N/S switch. The starter solenoid should not be getting any current when the key is just in the run position. Am I thinking along the right lines with all that?

The fact that it is not acting up at this moment makes it rather difficult to diagnose. The switch is cheap, and doesn't look like it will be hard to replace. I may just do that and see what time brings.

[12Ounce]

I agree with your approach. Even if the ignition switch turns out not to be the main culprit ... it is good maintenance practice to replace it after several thousand miles service. ... as they do fail! And it gives you a chance to lube up the rod and the key tumbler.

[Grabber5.0]

I think it has been long enough to call this fixed. Hasn't done it once since I replaced the switch. I suppose I should go ahead and put the cover back on the dash now.

Edit: No, it wasn't fixed. It didn't do it again for months, but it has been doing it again pretty frequently (ie. some days it does it about 1/4 of the time, though most days it never does it at all). Going to try replacing the relay in case it is shorting internally.