Starter not turning over

[rogus]

I recently pulled my steering column and changed the ignition switch. After re-install when I turn the key the guages react like normal - the sweep hand on the tach rotates all the way and then back for example - but the starter makes no effort to turn over. Never had this happen before. Took the battery to be checked and was told it had a full charge. All the electrical connectors I removed to get the column out all only connect one way so I'm not sure what I'm dealing with here. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[rogus]

I recently pulled my steering column and changed the ignition switch. After re-install when I turn the key the guages react like normal - the sweep hand on the tach rotates all the way and then back for example - but the starter makes no effort to turn over. Never had this happen before. Took the battery to be checked and was told it had a full charge. All the electrical connectors I removed to get the column out all only connect one way so I'm not sure what I'm dealing with here. Any help would be appreciated.

should also mentioned I had cleaned my battery post connectors and the starter makes absolutely no sound. No clicking noise - nothing.

 

[78Delta88]

Check the rod that engages the switch.

 

[Rt Jam]

In the start position. Is there power at the small lug on the starter.
From the work you did. I suspect a safety neutral switch problem.

 

[rogus]

Check the rod that engages the switch.

It is moving back and forth as I turn the key. Not sure if there is something else to check for there.

 

[ELCAM]

See if there is 12V at the purple wire coming from the ignition switch when the key is in cranking position.

Did the tab on the purple wire terminal break off so it is not engaging the terminal on the switch.

G bodies use a mechanical lockout for neutral safety not an electrical switch.

 

[rogus]

In the start position. Is there power at the small lug on the starter.
From the work you did. I suspect a safety neutral switch problem.

In the start position. Is there power at the small lug on the starter.
From the work you did. I suspect a safety neutral switch problem.

is this what the connector looks like?

 

[rogus]

See if there is 12V at the purple wire coming from the ignition switch when the key is in cranking position.

Did the tab on the purple wire terminal break off so it is not engaging the terminal on the switch.

G bodies use a mechanical lockout for neutral safety not an electrical switch.

being color blind I will need assistance to check that.

 

[78Delta88]

If the switch is going into lamp test, gauges are arming, doubtful it's the rod. Just check make sure its fully seated in the switch. From there if good, check electric as suggested.

Easiest is to check the small terminal at the starter. If it energizes (12VDC) at "start" and still no crank, check the large terminal on starter. It should be hot all times. If so, then issue is solenoid in starter. Pull the starter and bench test.

If no volts at small terminal when in "start", then it's in the circuit from switch to solenoid. You will have to back trace circuit.

Also check simple stuff first like fuses, fused links, circuit breaker (30 amp metal can style). Check and make sure all connectors are pushed all the way in, no burnt or frayed wires, etc...

Then always a possibility even if new..., the switch may be bad.

 

[rogus]

Using a wiring diagram I tested for power going in to the switch (red wires) and power going out to the starter (purple wire). There is power coming in on the red but no power going out on the purple - when turning key to the start position.