Hello:

I have a f150 4.9 automatic.

When I attempt to start the truck, nothing happens, it will not turn over. When I turn the ignition to run, the dash lights come on as they usually do, when I turn it to "start", it acts as though it is sending a signal to start. (the dash lights change, radio flashes, etc) yet the starter will not engage.

I put the selector in neutral, and still nothing. The only way I can get the truck to start is to turn the switch on, go under the hood, and connect an alligator clip to the coil post on the solenoid coil (not the two main contacts), and touch the positive on the battery, then it fires right up and runs fine.

Because the dash lights change when the switch is in the "start" position, I'm of the thought that it's not the switch itself. I'm wondering if it may be the park/neutral switch, but I am puzzled because I thought they were two separate switches, where is, if it wouldn't start in park, it might still start in neutral.

If it is this switch, where is it located? Is it on the steering column, or near the transmission?

Here's the rule:

In order to check the solenoid, put the transmission in Park and remove the push-on connector from the solenoid “S” terminal. Connect a jumper lead (12 AWG), or preferably a remote starter switch, between the positive battery terminal and the exposed “S” terminal on the solenoid. If the starter motor now operates, the solenoid is fine and the problem is with the ignition switch, neutral start switch, or wiring. If the starter motor still does not operate, replace the solenoid.

That's pretty much what I did with the alligator clip (attached one side to the S terminal, and touched the other to the positive battery post, it turned over and started), and that's how I'm starting the truck for now...

Now I'm just trying to locate the park switch so I can test it.

Look for the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS).

Thanks, I'll check it out tomorrow if it's not to wet outside and report back. I'm betting it has something to do with that, because if I attempt to start my other car in gear it exhibits the same symptom.