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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Engine/Drivetrain => Topic started by: jumpkickyergunt on October 18, 2014, 01:33:43 pm

Title: Starting issues
Post by: jumpkickyergunt on October 18, 2014, 01:33:43 pm

I put in a new starter in July. The thing started ticking, grinding, and occasionally would do nothing when the key was turned. I just warrantied that starter and stuck in a new one. No more ticking or grinding, but still occasionally does nothing when the key is turned. I have recently put in a new battery and alternator as well as a belt. Any thoughts on my next step?

Title: Re: Starting issues
Post by: rich weyand on October 18, 2014, 07:35:28 pm

Check the battery cables.  After ten years or so, they corrode internally with no outward sign.  Read the voltage from one end to the other of each cable when trying to start.  More than 1 volt is too much.

Title: Re: Starting issues
Post by: jumpkickyergunt on October 19, 2014, 06:25:34 pm

Forgot to mention new cables too. I'll double check the connections on the starter I guess.

Title: Re: Starting issues
Post by: bd on October 19, 2014, 07:44:24 pm

Automatic or standard trans?  What percent of the time does it "do nothing?"  Do you have a test light?

Title: Re: Starting issues
Post by: jumpkickyergunt on October 21, 2014, 08:54:59 pm

Automatic. Probably 20%. If I turn the key a few times eventually it fires right up

Title: Re: Starting issues
Post by: bd on October 21, 2014, 10:08:26 pm

I assume you've been attempting to start in park.  Try jiggling the shift lever next time, or shift it into neutral and try to crank it again.  See if that makes any difference.

Do you have a test light or voltmeter?

Title: Re: Starting issues
Post by: theaddictedchef on October 22, 2014, 08:35:10 am

I agree with bd.  Same issue and I had a combination.....neutral safety switch and new ignition switch.  Hope you get some answers - frustrating. 

Title: Re: Starting issues
Post by: jumpkickyergunt on December 19, 2014, 06:27:56 pm

If I'm in park and I wiggle the shift lever then it starts up.

Title: Re: Starting issues
Post by: rich weyand on December 19, 2014, 08:08:50 pm

Quote from: jumpkickyergunt on December 19, 2014, 06:27:56 pm

If I'm in park and I wiggle the shift lever then it starts up.

Neutral starting switch adjustment is off.

Title: Re: Starting issues
Post by: 80midnightchevy on December 20, 2014, 03:43:51 am

Have you possibly checked the wiring from the ignition switch to the starter?