No start...just click

[pismorat]

My '79 has recently become unreliable when starting...it sucks if it stalls on the trail. The batteries are good, but when I go to turn the key, I only get a click. I've replaced all the wiring from the batteries to the starter and I've put in a new hi-torq starter. Today, I go to start it and it just keeps clicking with every turn of the key. Then if I keep trying, eventually it'll crank. What could cause this? I've never replaced the ignition switch or anything that way...should I?

 

[rampage]

Check all the ground wires for corrosion both on the wires and under the wires where they make the connections.

 

[Stomis]

My '79 has recently become unreliable when starting...it sucks if it stalls on the trail. The batteries are good, but when I go to turn the key, I only get a click. I've replaced all the wiring from the batteries to the starter and I've put in a new hi-torq starter. Today, I go to start it and it just keeps clicking with every turn of the key. Then if I keep trying, eventually it'll crank. What could cause this? I've never replaced the ignition switch or anything that way...should I?

Is the starter to the block clean to make a ground?

 

[70jimmy]

If it has HEI, check ignition module or coil, possibly the ground wire for the coil.

Grounds and other starter wires for the solenoid.

After that I would look at ignition switch.

A lot of things can be checked with a voltmeter.

(I hate Wiring) That is all.

 

[Stomis]

The way I see it you've got juice there but it sounds like either A) The new starter is having the same problem the old one was or b) the sudden jolt of juice is breaking the connection where its no good.

This is either the hot lead to the starter or the ground between the starter and block, or block to battery. Forget the switches, harness, wiring, etc. If its clicking you're turning the juice on but its not operating the starter properly. Find out why.

 

[70jimmy]

One other thing that comes to mind is the gear mesh between starter and flexplate or flywheel. What clearance do you have? If the mesh is too deep I have seen that cause the situation you describe.

 

[handloader90]

Check this thread out.

Hey brother,

I've had the same problem(s) as you not too long ago.

Check this thread out: http://coloradok5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=315872

Got some great advice on here from some other members and had my truck running beautifully.

Maybe it will help.

 

[handloader90]

take a close look at you fusible links and squeeze them with your finger tips to see if they're mushy feeling. 14 GA fusible link can be had at your local parts store fairly cheap. O'reilly's here seems to have it in stock all of the time.

Check this page out specifically and look at the "wiring diagram", fixed my issues real quick. http://coloradok5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=315872&page=7

 

[bjr34bass]

I just spent a bunch of time troubleshooting a no start situation. After much effort, I revisited the battery connections. I did a deep clean of the cable terminals and battery posts and vioila! Started. Make sure your connections are pristine. I thought for sure they were good enough and went through all kinds of unnecessary troubleshooting only to find out it was the battery connections all along.