88BlackBirdGTA

I know there's other threads like this, but none seem to help me out much.

I have an 88 Firebird Trans Am GTA, as stated, and seemed to run fine for a while. Had some issues before where it'd start sometimes, but wouldn't occasionally. I would just get a click when turning the key. Usually just have to wait a bit and then it would start. That was in some colder whether though. Ended up completely not starting. Replaced the starter and all was fine after that. Then only once did it do it to me again. But after a bit of time it started. No problems again. Till just the other day I start it up and drive to work with no problem. Go to leave work, and wouldn't you know it...nothing. But this time, absolutely nothing. No click, no crank, no attempt at turning over. Nothing. I have power. All the lights work, dash lights up and all that. (Digital dash GTA model if it matters any). I thought my starter at first, but I'm getting nothing from the key for it to even try for a start. Then I thought maybe that VATS? I tried cleaning the key and cleaning the terminals inside the cylinder. Nothing still. I also tried doing the VATS bypass with the resistors. Measured the value on my key and got .510-.520 or so. Tried .500 and .550 resistance and still nothing. Normally try, no security light on the dash. When I try the bypass, security light stays constantly on. I'm getting very frustrated with this. I can't figure out what's going on. Please help, I need my bird back. Any advice or ideas will help.

MrPackstin

iTrader: (9)

Have you checked the Neutral Safety Switch? When it doesn't start hold it in the crank position and wiggle shifter back/forth. Might even have to edge slightly over into reverse. Put in neutral and do the same.

If no luck there I would take a look at the ignition switch under the steering column.

vetteoz

iTrader: (13)

Start by hot wiring the starter to confirm it still works.

If you do have VATS ,bypass the starter enable relay and see if it cranks
If it does not crank over ,then your problem is with the starter circuit ( ign switch , NSS , wiring .... )
and is not VATS related.
If it does crank then you have a VATS problem

88BlackBirdGTA

Ok, thanks for the ideas. Hopefully here soon I will have some time and I'll go try a couple things and get back with you guys with an update.

85Z28NOS

iTrader: (2)

I used to have a very similar problem with my old digi dash gta. I even was carrying a spare clutch switch. Ended up not being the key but the wire from the ignition to the vats module. Unplug it at the base of the steering column and check for your proper resistance there. You should not have gotten the security light when you tried to bypass it

88BlackBirdGTA

Ha, victory! Very pleased to say I got my bird running. Turns out it was my VATS messing up and I had the wrong value of resistance when I first tried the bypass. Got some higher valued resistors and rigged it up. Starts right up again like she used to. Thank you and I appreciate the help you all offered.