FYI Starting Problems.
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Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 59
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From: BC, Canada
FYI Starting Problems.
I had some problems recently starting my Vette. Just thought I'd post my findings.
The problem with the car was this. When the ignition was turned to start the engine would not turn over and the solenoid would not engage (no click). There are many things that could cause this, failed ignition switch, failed start enable relay, failed clutch switch (or shifter switch for auto), malfunctioning VATS or defective starter. Loose or broken connections between any of these systems could also be the cause as well as battery condition and connections.
This is how I would diagnose the fault if I had to do it again.
First, check the voltage of the battery and recharge if necessary. Also clean the connections very very well. I used a tiny wire brush on my drill and found that it works best for cleaning side post terminals and cables.
Second, get everything quiet (turn off any radios, fans, etc.) and listen very carefully as you turn the key to start. If you can hear the solenoid engageing, then go no further, it is probably a defective starter. If not, continue. Listen carefully to the center dash for a click. If you hear a click there, then your start enable relay is probably working as well as your ignition switch. If no click then you need to check both those units for a fault.
Third, check for voltage at the large post of the starter. You should have more than 12 volts there. Next check for voltage on the smaller post with the ignition to start. You should have more than 9 volts. If you do, then everything is working except the starter.
There are a few other points along the system that you could test, but I think these three steps should point to the culprit.
My problem turned out to be the brushes on the starter were worn down to the nub. This is a problem for the solenoid as well, because the brushes complete the circuit for that part as well as the starter motor.
I hope this helps anyone with a very frustrating "no start" condition.
The problem with the car was this. When the ignition was turned to start the engine would not turn over and the solenoid would not engage (no click). There are many things that could cause this, failed ignition switch, failed start enable relay, failed clutch switch (or shifter switch for auto), malfunctioning VATS or defective starter. Loose or broken connections between any of these systems could also be the cause as well as battery condition and connections.
This is how I would diagnose the fault if I had to do it again.
First, check the voltage of the battery and recharge if necessary. Also clean the connections very very well. I used a tiny wire brush on my drill and found that it works best for cleaning side post terminals and cables.
Second, get everything quiet (turn off any radios, fans, etc.) and listen very carefully as you turn the key to start. If you can hear the solenoid engageing, then go no further, it is probably a defective starter. If not, continue. Listen carefully to the center dash for a click. If you hear a click there, then your start enable relay is probably working as well as your ignition switch. If no click then you need to check both those units for a fault.
Third, check for voltage at the large post of the starter. You should have more than 12 volts there. Next check for voltage on the smaller post with the ignition to start. You should have more than 9 volts. If you do, then everything is working except the starter.
There are a few other points along the system that you could test, but I think these three steps should point to the culprit.
My problem turned out to be the brushes on the starter were worn down to the nub. This is a problem for the solenoid as well, because the brushes complete the circuit for that part as well as the starter motor.
I hope this helps anyone with a very frustrating "no start" condition.
