C3 Tech/Performance V8 Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine, Basic Tech and Maintenance for the C3 Corvette
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Old Apr 24, 2009 | 08:29 PM
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Default Starter help!

Hey guys, I am having major problems with my starter. I am trying to get it to turn over, with ZERO luck. I looked at the wiring diagram, and I think the problem may be a fuse. I will pose pics when I get back to my computer, but if any of you have any ideas why I am having no success what so ever turning the car over off the top of your head, Id appreciate it.

I am pretty sure that I have all wire on the correct terminals, but I will post ics of that too when I get back.... Thanks guys.

Jordan
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Old Apr 24, 2009 | 08:35 PM
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what has changed since the last time it worked ? or, did you just replace it?

I would make sure the battery is fully charged. take it and have it tested if you do not have a tester.

Do you hear anything when you hit the key or is it crickets?

A little history may help know where to start looking.
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Old Apr 24, 2009 | 08:36 PM
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Are you getting a click? or anything? Headlights?
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Old Apr 24, 2009 | 10:25 PM
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Background:
I just bought it two months ago. The story (very reliable) was that it ran fine 3 years ago. The trans started leaking a bit so they pulled it out to re-gasket. Then the own became diagnosed with crippling arthritis. Had to sell because it was to painful to work on any more.

The battery is BRAND NEW, I bought it 3 days ago. As far as sound, all I get is crickets.
I have headlights and pull power to the dash, all lights work, windshield wipers work, ect.

The only modifications that I have done to the vehicle so far is correct the wires on the solenoid terminals (received correct sequence from another thread) and hooked up the battery.

Heres a picture of the fuse panel, I believe it is a electrical problem, but I am having a hell of a time reading the wiring diagram.

What are the things, other than electrical, would keep the vehicle from clicking?

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Old Apr 24, 2009 | 10:49 PM
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does anyone have any ideas about this? Its a real bummer and I cant figure it out at all.
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Old Apr 25, 2009 | 12:42 AM
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When you put a test light on the solenoid "S" terminal (the little terminal closest to the block)and turn the key to start does the test lamp light up? If not you have a problem with that wire or the neutral safety switch or the clutch switch. Your Vette is auto or stick? PG.
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Old Apr 25, 2009 | 12:50 AM
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Make a short/jumper (with screw driver) between the big terminal -the cable that come from the battery (+12V) to the 'S' terminal and see if the starter work.
If not, check if you have ground between the starter & frame.
Good Luck
Avner
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Old Apr 25, 2009 | 12:52 AM
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Just looked at your profile and it says you have a 79.
Starter should have 2 terminals, 1 large one for the battery cable and a smaller one for the start wire.
Confirm that it only has the 2.

I would take a screwdriver with about a 5 ot 6" shank, make sure the car is in neutral or park, reach down under the exhaust manifold and short out the big terminal to the other smaller one, it will spark a bit, but the starter should turn over the engine if the starter is good.

Just an easy first test.

If it turns over, then chase down the start wire to the neutral switch and then all the way to the ignition switch.
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Old Apr 25, 2009 | 06:49 AM
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Thanks so much everyone. Illl let yall know on how it turns out!!
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Old Apr 25, 2009 | 09:23 PM
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Does the engine turn by hand? Can you turn the crankshaft pully by hand, or move the starter ring with a screwdriver or small prybar? Maybe more than a electrical problem.
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