Ford Repair: F150 Starter, starter solenoid, starter problem

Question
Hello. I'm writing about starter problem with my 78 F 150/ 300 straight 6cyl. When I turn the key to start, the starter comes on when the key is in the 'on' position instead of when it's turned to the 'start' position. I couldn't find any loose wires or shorts. What next? Thanks for any help. Steve Artz

Answer
Several parts can cause this. The good news is that they are all relatively cheap. Start with the fender mounted starter solenoid. Undo the battery before of course. The others are either at the ignition switch, or the rod in the steering column is bent.