Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting Location of Instr. Interface Module?

Can anyone tell me where the Instrument Interface Module is located?

I'm trying to diagnose an electric problem w/ my O/D switch and shift interlock. First step is to unplug the connector to the Instrument Interface Module, but the service manual isn't telling me where to find it! Any guidance is greatly appreciated.

FWIW, see also my topic on "Failed shift interlock solenoid -- $635 ??!!" If you open the console, there is a wiring harness and connector where the O/D wires and (I think) the interlock wires go. You might want to make sure those wires are in order first, if the Instrument Interface Module is harder to access. (Or maybe that connector *is* the one you want.)

Also, my interlock solenoid (or related part) has failed but O/D still works fine, so at least they don't necessarily fail together, if this helps.

IIRC, the Instr. Interface Module is under the dash near the fuse panel. Don't ask what it looks like. I was looking for that a while back when I had some trouble with my speedo, but I found out it was the VSS that was the problem. The location came from a generic service CD-ROM that my mechanic had, although he isn't from a Ford dealership. Don't know if that helps much.

Scott - I've had the console open, removed the solenoid and tested it. 12 volts caused it to activate so I think the problem is elsewhere. Glad you didn't pay for the new shifter, my dealer quoted about $85 for the solenoid and it's a snap to replace, once you figure out how to get those O/D wires out of the connector in the console. BTW that connector is only 8 pins, the one I'm looking for is 16.

Alan - thanks for the tip. There's only about a dozen electrical connectors by the fuse panel, so I guess I need to sort through them carefully.

Anybody have more specific info?

Alright, I'm pretty sure I found that puppy. It _is_ under the dash on the driver side, pretty high up and towards the door relative to the fuse junction panel. About 8" directly forward of the headlight switch. The Instrument Interface Module itself is green, and it has a rather small 16-pin connector. The number and color of the wires matches the schematic in the service manual, so I think I am looking at the right connector. Thanks for the clues that helped lead me to it.