nyrobbie77

Got in the car tonight to come home from work. Turned the key and nothing. No crank, no start, no clicking or anything. Car has full battery power. Had to have the car towed home for the third time in a year (alternator once and fuel pump another time). I don't have any symptoms of a bad ignition switch so am thinking it is probably the starter. From what I've read they are a real bear to replace. How difficult is it to get to the wiring connections to make sure I'm getting juice to the starter? Any other things I should check or tips on replacing the starter?

Thanks in advance.

jfrahm

When this happens it's always a good idea to move the shifter to N and to wiggle it around a bit in case it's the neutral safety switch.

nyrobbie77

I forgot to mention I did try to start in neutral several times as well.

Y888

Maybe crank position sensor?

the_duke

If it won't crank at all it's not the CPS.

nyrobbie77

took another quick look at it tonight. When I turn the key I can hear something click so I think I can rule out the F125 switch. Looking like starter is probably shot. Will investigate more this weekend.

nyrobbie77

Anyone know what size socket on the harmonic balancer center bolt? Would like to spin the engine by hand to make sure it's not locked up. Would be very odd that it would happen as I shut it off the last time and with no noise. Just want to rule it out.

the_duke

Are you certain battery terminals have a good connection? Also could be the relay.

jfrahm

A seized engine would be noticeable when the starter crashed or stuck and drew current, probably. The wiring to the starter would be my first look, and the main power mess-o-corrosion in the RF wheel well deserves a look.

There is also probably a relay on the starter interlock you might check or jumper. The neutral safety might be broken and not working an any position. It's cold, stuff breaks.

nyrobbie77

Thanks all. Got my list together of things to check. Going to start with the neutral switch, relay, junction block in RF wheel area. Can you get to any of the wiring on the starter without removing the subframe? I suppose I could trace it up to an open area if not.

Supposed to be in the 40s this weekend plus I have a kerosene torpedo heater. I'll update once I get some diagnosis done.