1995 Montero SR - Here's the situation: Sometimes it doesn't start (no starter clicking). It might start the 2nd or 3rd try. Otherwise, shifting the transmission to neutral will generally get it to start. I'm assuming the neutral safety switch is the issue as shifting the gear selector seems to make it work (most of the time).

I searched the forum (virtually useless) and found information about GenI which has it's switch located in the gear selector. But nothing about GenII.

Question: Has anyone replaced the switch on GenII Montero? Where is it located? Possible to fix or just replace?

Thanks for your help. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

That is not an unusual problem - mine does the same thing. A thread exists somewhere on this forum where the problem was eliminated by wiring in a relay for the starter circuit - apparently the factory wiring has the ignition switch handling all the power to the starter solenoid and it becomes less capable of sending full power as contacts wear and connections age. I don't think the problem is your neutral safety switch - my experience has been that they either work correctly or they fail completely.

Play with the search function looking for threads about ignition switches and you should come up with it.

The NSS is on the tranny on the end of the shift valve shaft.

Ryan -
Thanks for the info. How are you planning to fix the issue? Have you checked into ignition replacement costs? I'll do more searching too.

Thanks Fasteddy.

It really doesn't bother me that much - it always cranks on the second try. If it gets any worse I'll have to decide whether to replace the electrical portion of the ignition switch or just wire up a relay, but at this point it's pretty low on the priority list.

My dealer stocks the switch ($40); it's a common problem. I will replace mine and let you guys know the results. Appreciate it.

On the two 95's I've owned, both had this problem. It was in both cases the ignition switch. If you take off the bottom of the steering column cover you can access it and remove it with two small screws. Replacement was about 35 bucks from the stealer. In one case I was able to take the switch apart and clean it and got another year or so out of it before it acted up again and I replaced it.

Next time it acts up leave the shifter alone and try cranking the key forward, give it a firm wiggle..if it fires, this will confirm the problem.