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Old Jul 5, 2006 | 11:27 AM
  #1  
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Default starting problem

I'm having a slight problem starting my 66'.

I admit up front I haven't even had a chance to look at it other than to check the battery, (still 12-13 volts).

Recently I've noticed that there is a slight "delay" when I turn the key before the car turns over. When it does turn over there appears to be plenty of charge and it fires right off. However, the "delay" seemed to be more and more prevelant lately. Last night, when I turned the key there was absolutely nothing. (However, like I said, there appears to be plenty of charge in the battery) all gauges, clocks, lights, etc. work.

I'm wondering if I just have a problem with my ignition switch such as corrosion that is causing an intermittent starting problem??

thanks,
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Old Jul 5, 2006 | 12:33 PM
  #2  
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Look for 12 volts at the "S" terminal (where the purple wire connects at the solenoid) with the key in "start" - that's what energizes the starter. That wire has two potentially high-resistance connections before it gets to the starter - one is an in-line connector approximately above the wiper motor, and the other is where it passes through the inboard multiple connector on the engine compartment side of the fuse block.

If those connections check out, it could be the purple wire terminal on the ignition switch harness connection or the internal contacts in the switch itself.
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Old Jul 5, 2006 | 01:04 PM
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In addition to John's suggestions, if you have an automatic, that circuit extends to the neutral safety switch on it's way to the 'S' terminal. There's a second in-line connector in the same relative position & then the dreaded neutral safety switch itself to examine for high resistance.
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Old Jul 5, 2006 | 05:11 PM
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From: Lewistown MT
Default Thanks

Thanks guys,

As I stated I hadn't even had time to do routine checks but thought I'd post anyway.

Those are great suggestions. My car IS an automatic and I did a total re-wire myself. Can't be positive and would NEVER profess to do absolutely perfect work but I'm pretty confident in my abilites. All my connections are soldered and have heat shrink for good continuity and protection....I'm just thinking I MUST have a switch or part that is wearing out

AND I REALY HOPE ITS NOT THE NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH...MY GOD, I'D RATHER CHANGE THE HEATER CORE THAN DEAL WITH THAT AGAIN!!!
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