Ignition switch problem?
 

OK, the last couple weeks have not been good to me. The latest problem I have is the car not wanting to start easily. I've searched the arcives, and I havent been able to find a definate answer so I'll throw it out, and hopefully JW or Warren, or any one else can help.

When I turn on the ignition switch, the fuel pump hums, and all the lights and such turn on. When I turn the key all the way to start, I can hear what sounds like the fuel pumping sending fuel, but there is no turn over for the first 2-5 seconds, then VRoom, she comes to life. Once in a while, it does everything above, but doesn't start. I've checked voltage on the battery and it's 12.5 volts. What I need to know is, this just the electrical part of the ignition switch going bad? Is there a way I can test voltage or anything on it? Or should I look elesewhere? I can handle just replacing the $40 electrical part, but the whole thing would suck!

Please Help!


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Matt Chamblin
78 911 SC

ah, the age old question: (there's no turn over for 2-5 seconds). does that mean the starter is not cranking the engine over, or does the starter work ok and the engine won't fire?

[This message has been edited by john walker's workshop (edited 10-14-2001).]

John,
The starter does not crank over. It's like the switch is not allowing the juice to flow to the starter. Then after 3-5 seconds the starter spins and the engine roars to life.

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Matt Chamblin
78 911 SC

Sounds like you need a whole new switch assembly.

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Warren Hall
1973 911S Targa
1992 Dodge Dakota 5.2 4X4 parts hauler

Matt, try cleaning the multi-pin connector on the panel with the 3 fuses on it in the engine compartment. http://www.pelicanparts.com/ultimate...loads/plug.jpg


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Robert Stoll
83 SC
83 944

Matt,

Been there. After 2 1/2 years trying to track down the problem to the point of taking my starter down to Kragan to have it checked out for free, only to find out there was nothing wrong with it, put it back on the car and have it not start again. I can't begin to tell you how frustrated I felt.

Finally, I pulled the starter again, installed a new solenoid and it's been staring ever since.

Joe

[This message has been edited by stlrj (edited 10-15-2001).]

if you had the electrical part of the switch, you could quickly test it by removing the plug from the back of your original switch and plugging on the test switch. use a screwdriver to start it. most shops have a few used ones around for test purposes.

In case any one is interested, I traced the problem back to my starter solenoid. Just finish installing re-built Bosch starter from Pelican. And she starts great now. Hope the neighbors don't mind me taking a few hot laps around the hood, since I haven't driven my baby in 10 days! http://www.pelicanparts.com/support/smileys/nuts.gif




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Matt Chamblin
78 911 SC