1990 Start problem!!!
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 227
Likes: 0
From: CA
1990 Start problem!!!
I have been having problems starting my 1990 Corvette mostly when the engine is hot and the weather is hot. Only twice has it not started when it was cold. I have already checked the starter and there is no power getting to the starter when the key is turned. I do here the click from behind the dash but it dosent even try to crank. I have tried all my spare keys to no avail. I have also installed a VAT bypass switch and still, it doesnt start. I am running out of options and the dealership is charging me major $$$ to tell me "I dunno!" If anyone can help it would be much appriciated. Thanx!! :confused:
Team Owner
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 90,675
Likes: 304
From: SE NY
Cruise-In II Veteran
Re: 1990 Start problem!!! (C490Vette)
Could be the starter, but first try wiggling the shifter in Park and in Neutral.
If no help clip a DMM test lead on the starter cable to see if it's getting voltage when you turn the key to Start. If so check the contact to the starter.
If ok, have the starter tested; replace if bad.
If no help clip a DMM test lead on the starter cable to see if it's getting voltage when you turn the key to Start. If so check the contact to the starter.
If ok, have the starter tested; replace if bad.
Race Director
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 17,101
Likes: 4
From: No more yankee my wankee, the Donger is tired!
Re: 1990 Start problem!!! (C490Vette)
I have been having problems starting my 1990 Corvette mostly when the engine is hot and the weather is hot. Only twice has it not started when it was cold. I have already checked the starter and there is no power getting to the starter when the key is turned. I do here the click from behind the dash but it dosent even try to crank. I have tried all my spare keys to no avail. I have also installed a VAT bypass switch and still, it doesnt start. I am running out of options and the dealership is charging me major $$$ to tell me "I dunno!" If anyone can help it would be much appriciated. Thanx!! :confused:
Well, is it a manual or automatic? Manual, check your clutch safety switch. Auto, beats me :crazy:
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 54,124
Likes: 30
From: Cincinnati, Oh USA
Re: 1990 Start problem!!! (C490Vette)
No power to the starter solenoid terminal on the starter? Since you hear a click behind the center of the dash, your start enable relay is working although its contacts could be defective (not likely). On automatics, there is a switch on the gear selector lever to only allow cranking in park (maybe neutral too). It sounds like your switch is not activated and is not passing 12v from the crank position on your ign sw to get to the starter solenoid on the starter. If you don't have 12v on the large terminal on the starter, then you have corroded battery cable connections on the battery. Remove both batt cables (neg first), clean the cable lugs and the batt terminals and replace (neg last). Measure the batt terminal volts when attempting a crank. Battery voltage should not fall below 9.0 volts or the battery is discharged, poor cable connections, or the battery is at the end of its life.
