Just some background:
I recently got an 01 ranger edge 4.0. I only paid $300 for it and I knew it came w some issues. It had a random misfire that was intermittent. I changed a couple sensors and coil pack then it just eventually died. It was also having odd electrical issues which just didn't add up. So went and bought a new battery and fuel filter. Changed those and it fired right up but then wasnt shifting correctly. Hooked up the obd2 and it showed bad TPS, changed that and it's now running perfectly.

The issue I just discovered is when I turn my headlights out, the switch will actually turn passed the off position and when it does, it seems to turn on things that looks like I turned my key on but it does this w the key completely out of the ignition. All the instrument lights come on and I can hear the fuel pump relay kick on as well. Is this a sign there is a short in the wiring or just need a new switch?

 

Welcome to the forum

Well you need a new switch regardless

But can't see a connection between headlight switch and ignition switch(under steering column)
2001 headlight wiring below

Pull out fuse 24 in engine bay fuse box, powers headlights full time
If that doesn't prevent the "false" power up then put fuse back and pull out fuse 33 in engine fuse box, Parking light full time power
That should narrow down where there might be a short in the system