Most of my problems have been solved except for the one time in one hundred that my car will not start. You turn the key and everything works except the starter. When it does this I check the trigger wire going to the starter solenoid and there is no power when the key is in the start position. I think it has to do with the factory security system. Is there a way for me to bypass this? If I can figure this out the car will be almost perfect. The car is a 89' L98 sort of vette. Thank's

Phil

 

You can bypass the "VATS" with this http://www.parts123.com/parts123/yb....Z5Z5Z50000050F it costs $59.95.

Use a digital multimeter on the ohms scale to get the ignition keys resistor value (key code 1-15).

 

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...ghlight=wiring

 

could also be the pellet contacts on the key, either worn or dirty - have you tried a new key?

Presume the problem remains for a typical period of time which represents the 'disabled' timeframe of the VATS system.

I remember at some point they improved the ignition switch and key to eliminate problem contacts. Not sure when or if after your model year, but could be the issue..

 

You have completed one of the first parts of the diagnostic procedure I have typed more than 350 times on VATS. No voltage on the clutch safety switch (gear selector sw if auto) in crank, tells you that you need to remove the kick panel above the drivers feet and find the 2 wires from above the steering column that goes to a 2 pin connector and unplug it. Insert key and measure the resistance across the 2 wires from the steering column. It should be the same as the pellet. If more than 4% off, then you need a new ign lock which comes with new contacts that make connection to the pellet. You can temporarily bypass VATS until you can get the lock replaced by connecting a fixed resistor the same value as your pellet across the 2 wires in the wiring harness (goes to VATS module). Be aware that there is a start enable relay going to the clutch safety switch and it may also be defective. You can use one or more 1/4 watt 5% resistors from Radio Shack (they cost a heck of lot less than $59.95).
Don't permanently bypass VATS because 99% of thefts are done by bashing the column and jumping the ignition.
I bought my 87 from someone who bought a 90 vette and one day they came out of work to find the driver window busted out and the column bashed apart, but their 90 hadn't budged an inch.

 

That is exactly what it is. After it does this you can wait maby 5 minuints or so and it will start right up like nothing was wrong. The key is pretty screwed up. I would like to get rid of the entire system. Theft is not a big problem here. We live in the middle of nowhere. Raido Shack here I come.

Phil