Car would start but wouldn't stay running. now when i turn the ignition, instead of turning over it makes a strange sound and a little bit of smoke came up from around the battery somewhere

SOURCE: ford mustang 1966 ignition problem.

The starter solinoid is bad.Clean and check battery cables also.

SOURCE: ford taurus won't start when car been running for awhile

Could be your alternator not being able to spin enough current to start the car. Battery alone wont be enough to start the car. The alternator kicks in and helps. So check the alternator out. Take the alternator out and take it to autozone and they will check it for you for free.

SOURCE: doesn't always turn over

It sounds like your battery isn't holding a charge. Regarding the starting, you may have to replace your starter solenoid. Although many cars do not start if the brake pedal is not depressed, the thunderbird is not one of them. I have one outside in my driveway right now. There are unfortunately, numerous electrical glitches with 89-94 Thunderbirds. I have replaced many many electrical parts for both of mine (a '90 v-6 and a '94 v-8)

SOURCE: 2005 Diesel F-350 turn over but will not start

check heating module, follow wires from heating plugs and you will come to it hope this helps?

Testimonial: "thank you for your input, i will try that & post back. mechanicly uninclined to an extent so i appeciate your time. SF-SoCal"

SOURCE: 2002 Ford Escape V6 XLT, problem w/ initial start in cold weather

Does the engine crank but just not start? Or... are you cycling the ignition switch without trying to crank the engine? Based on the information you have given, I would first guess that the fuel pump may be going out. I say this because when you first turn the key on the pump primes the engine with pressurized fuel. If the pump is getting old, it may take a few power cycles to get it going. You can test this theory by having somebody listen near the rear of the car while you turn the key on for the first time. The fuel pump make a faint, yet distinctive high pitch noise that can be heard when you turn the key on. Try that first. Next thing you would try is checking the relays for proper function... starting with the fuel pump relay. Good luck.