86 manual neutral switch issue?
Thread Starter
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Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 72
Likes: 5
From: Sewell NJ
86 manual neutral switch issue?
Hoping someone has experience with a problem I've had for 2 of the last 5 years I've owned the car. New battery, fully charged. Problem: need to depress the clutch virtually through the floor boards to engage the starter (in any gear). Usually, after running the car, regardless of clutch depression - no start unless jumped. Anyone know whether this is a starter switch adjustment (shop manual has replace instructions - no adjust), starter switch disconnect (not sure I like this option but will do it), or is this potentially a different problem?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 5,043
Likes: 8
From: Tampa Florida
Check the clutch switch by bouncing the pedal a little while you have it depressed to the floor while attempting to crank the engine when you have your "no start" condition occur. You may need to test, replace or bypass the switch if it is suspect.
There is a "starter enable" relay behind the bezel just above the radio which may be another possible culprit....the relay is closed/activated by the VATS security system when the park/neutral switch cirucit is closed and the ignition key hits the run/start position once the correct ignition pellet resistance is received by the VATS.
There is a "starter enable" relay behind the bezel just above the radio which may be another possible culprit....the relay is closed/activated by the VATS security system when the park/neutral switch cirucit is closed and the ignition key hits the run/start position once the correct ignition pellet resistance is received by the VATS.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 72
Likes: 5
From: Sewell NJ
So, I depress the clutch to the floor and turn the key. Nothing (no click, no nothing). Then I follow your advice and move the clutch a little while depressed. It starts up. So I repeat, clutch to floor - nothing. Clutch to floor - work the pedal a bit - it starts up. Works a third time as well. So here's my question - why? Loose connection, bad switch? There a way to correct this? I'd hate to have to rely on wiggling a pedal to get it started.
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2000
Posts: 83,383
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From: Boston, MA
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