I'm sure I don't have the first Aerostar with problems.

The one I have doesn't want to start but instead "slips." I have to jiggle the steering column shifter, and then it starts right up. I was told that this is because there'* some sensor that sees if the car is in P or N before it'll let the engine do anything. I'll try to get a video of the engine the next time I can get the shifter in such a place that the engine won't start.

Does it help if you pull the gear shift lever further up while you turn the key?

Picture this: hold the gear shift lever further up with your left hand (wrapped up, over the wheel) while you try to start it with your right hand.

I completely see what you're saying, so kudos for that. But actually, the shifter has to go the other way. Strange, isn't it?

Have you tried neutral position to see if it will start that way?

Yes, it does start like that as well. It'* a nice solution, but just too strange to remember.

This might be a bad time for me to add that you can, without the key, turn the surrounding metal thing 360°. 1337ssei'* dad took it to some lock place for them to rip out the ignition and see if the goods need to be replaced.

Is the shifter loose at all? What engine/year is it? My parents 95 with the 4.0L has never had this issue... :?

This is a 92 Aerostar with a 3.0L V6 and only RWD.

Could I put in some ghetto system to short out the starter solenoid when the key is in the on position?

Actually my friend had that same van in hawaii..92, 3.0, RWD, had that same problem. He just put it in neutral to start it. IIRC.

I had an ignition switch issue with my 91 LeBaron 'vert some time ago. I was too poor to even afford a junkyard switch, so I rigged up a doorbell switch to start the thing. Worked well enough to get me by for a few months.

That'* awesome! Do you think I can rig a giant, red button that you hold down until the car starts when the key is in the ON position?