Does anybody know how to hotwire a 93 Dakota 5.2? Today it suddenly quit starting. Basically, the ignition switch just stopped bouncing back from position four. It won't turn over. I have already cracked the steering column. There is voltage on the ignition wires. Also, I'm ruling out the starter, because it's only several months old. I'm afraid to fry something. So, if anybody knows the proper procedure, I'd apreciate it.
Thanks.

 

Turn the key to 'ON', open the PDC under the hood and pull the starter relay, look at the bottom of the relay for pins 30 and 87 (they SHOULD be directly across from one another but check). Match the pin locations to where they are in the socket. Take a piece of wire and jump the relay socket between the 30 and 87 sockets and remove it when the truck starts.

 

Thanks,
I knew there had to be a "Macgyver" way for this. I'll give it a try tomorrow. I'll keep ya posted.

 

Hello Festerw,
That trick worked! However, does that indicate a bad ignition switch, or a bad starter relay? If it's the switch I'll need to identify which wires to use for a temporary switch. Thanks for your help.

 

Cool glad it got you going at least.

If you're ignition switch isn't springing back from the start position I'd lean towards that. If you have a multi-tester you can have someone turn the key to start and check for 12V at the 86 location on the starter relay socket. If there is no voltage there is a problem with the ignition switch or wiring between the relay and switch. If there is voltage it's likely the starter relay.

 

I'll check it out. I guess the worst case sceniario is, perhaps, I can rig up a "temporary" toggle/pushbutton off the relay socket to the dash. Thanks for your input. I'll keep you posted.

Happy knuckle bustin'

 

I had to replace my ignition cylinder, but not the switch. I'm sure the procedure is similar you will need a couple specific tools to do the job

1. steering wheel removal tool

2. lock plate removal tool

pay super close attention once I got off my lock plate I had a spring and a nipple come flying out

 

Thanks,
Of course, it's always gotta be some special tool. Hopefully, I'll gitter' done.
Take it easy.

 

A new ignition switch is less than $20...takes about 30 mins. max to change it, even the first time.

 

If you have the tools on hand and nothing breaks/gets lost and depending on what year dakota - sure.

I forgot to mention, depending on the year you may not need the lock plate removal tool. I have only worked on pre-91's