If I have no wires connected to the starter...all disconnected...and turn the key to the on position...should I have power? or no power?

Currently I have no power with key in on position and wires disconnected. Trying to nail down a no start (turn key...nada)...and working on a few different things all at once.


Had disconnected ignition switch, now have it hooked up...while in the mean time taking off starter to check it. Starter checked out fine...installing now and plan to redo all the connections...so wires are all hanging loose. Thought I hooked up everything under the dash fine.

 

You might have no power. While my engine was out, we had to clamp all the ground wires that fasten to the rear of the cyl. head studs, and the startter wires, along with the battery, to mock up the system, to check the new fuel system circuit. If we failed to do this, nothing happened.

 

If you have no wires hooked up to the starter, of course it won't start. The starter requires a power supply (2 actually). It requires a constant "hot" which is direct from the battery. It also requires a 12v that gets power when the key gets turned to the "Start" position.

Also, if you have no wires hooked to the starter, nothing else will get power, either. Because the positive side of the battery goes direct to the starter, everything, from there, revieves power (branches off from the big terminal on the solenoid).

If the starter doesn't turn over, then obviously the starter or solenoid is at fault. Does the starter click when you turn the key, but nothing happens (indicating low battery charge or bad connection between battery and starter solenoid)? Or does it not do anything at all (possible bad solenoid)?

 

That's what I needed clarification on, thanks...

My no start condition is not starter related, except for some bad wires...or possible ignition switch problem.