i've looked in my Haynes repair book and it doesn't tell me how to replace the ignition control switch. and i need to know if there is any special tools i need, and any other things i might need to know
I have a 95 3.4 5spd.
The reason i think it is the ignition control switch is that when i try to turn the car on there is only 1 click (from the starter) then nothing.
after a couple of tries then the car will turn over no problem.
ive replaced the starter and the battery is good.
Thanks for your help

 

The term is "ignition switch" plain and simple. The switch is held to the side of the steering column about halfway down. Two screws hold it to the column jacket.
No special tools. Remove the lower dash trim to see the switch.

 

You must be talking about the ignition switch... That is located under the dash on the top of the column. No special tools are needed just a 7mm and 8mm sockets or wrenches. I have found some that need a phillips screwdriver to remove it just depends on what they had when they built the column I think. You will have to remove the high beam switch as well they are mounted together.

Now as for the problem with the car... how old is the starter? I know you said you replaced it but if the heat shield is gone the starter could be fried already. How do your cables look? are they still supple or have they been hardened? Supple is good hardened is bad. Is all your connections tight and corrosion free? Lead oxide (dark grey color on the battery posts) is actually almost an insulator so it will create alot of resistance if corroded. The lead part of the posts should be shiney grey/silver. Also what condition is your battery in? If it is over 5 years you may want to consider replacing it, a bad batt will cause the simptoms you are talking about.

3.4L engines are notorious for killing starters so even if you just got a new one your exhaust can kill one in a few months if you bought the cheapy 1 yr warranty one or even the lifetime warranty starter. The cars came with a heat shield but most people didnt put it back on after they replaced the starter for the first time.

Massey

 

the old starter was original from 95. thew heat shield did not fit on the new starter but it was probably only on the car for 30 min so i dont think it was bad.
The wires held their shape after the old starter came off but they moved easily and dint have any discoloration.
I replaced the ignition switch and it helped a lot but didnt get rid of the problem completely.
should i replace the key cylinder and key? I head the microchip in the key goes bad after a while and can cause the same problem.
any ideas?

 

Does the 3.4 have the little read junction box on the fender (battery side) if so, unscrew the wires and make them bright and shiny and tighten them back down. Disconnect the negative side of battery first. Those wires will be hot if you don't. Also, If the negative battery cable is corroded where it attaches to the engine, it will need to be cleaned up for a good ground.