Thunderbird V6-232 3.8L SC (1989)
Neutral Safety Switch: Service and Repair
Removal
1. Place the selector lever in the MANUAL LOW position.
2. Disconnect battery ground cable.
3. Raise the vehicle on a hoist.
4. Disconnect the Neutral Start Switch electrical harness from the Neutral Start Switch by PUSHING the harness straight UP OFF the switch using a
long-bladed screwdriver underneath the rubber plug section of the harness.
5. Remove the Neutral Start Switch and O-ring using Neutral Start Switch Socket or equivalent, assembled to a ratchet 24 cm (9 1/2 inches) in
length. Once the socket and ratchet are on the switch, sufficient clearance for tool movement can be gained by reaching from the REAR of the
transmission over the extension housing area while standing on a stool.
CAUTION: Use the Neutral Start Switch Socket or equivalent for both removing and installing the switch. Other tools could crush or puncture
the walls of the switch.
Installation
1. Install the Neutral Start Switch and O-ring.
CAUTION: Exercise care not to damage the switch terminals. Tighten to 11-15 Nm (8-11 ft-lbs) using a clicker-type torque wrench, the Neutral
Start Switch socket tool, and by following the method in Step 4 of the REMOVAL procedure for tool clearance.
2. Connect the Neutral Start Switch electrical harness to the Neutral Start Switch.
3. Lower the vehicle from the hoist.
4. Connect battery ground cable.
5. Check the operation of the Neutral Start Switch in each position with the parking brake ENGAGED.