2.3L ('83-'97) 94 2.3 - starts only with solenoid bypass?

[gktbay]

1994 2.3l / auto trans - not getting power at smaller wire to trigger starter solenoid. Key switch, ignition switch and fender mounted solenoid are each AOK (new). Battery is fine also.

 

[tw205]

Will it start with transmission in neutral. Transmission has a safety switch that only allows solenoid trigger to pass power when in park or neutral.

 

[Uncle Gump]

I'm going to agree with the neutral safety switch.

Try turning the key to the crank position and moving the gear selector a bit.

 

[gktbay]

Will it start with transmission in neutral. Transmission has a safety switch that only allows solenoid trigger to pass power when in park or neutral.

Will try that this morning ...

 

[gktbay]

I'm going to agree with the neutral safety switch.

Try turning the key to the crank position and moving the gear selector a bit.

Will try that this morning ...

 

[gktbay]

Results: No start at all with automatic shift lever movement.
Did turn key switch to engage a start process ... released the key switch and moments later I hear what sounds like a relay would, powered on and/or off. This sound is not coming from the newly installed starter solenoid or the nearby relay/fuse panel box above the driver side fender well. It sounds as though it is at firewall, possibly in the cab(?).

 

[RobbieD]

Does the truck have an alarm system? Or does it have keyless entry, as in a key fob that works the door locks?

 

[gktbay]

Does the truck have an alarm system? Or does it have keyless entry, as in a key fob that works the door locks?

No sir, not at all.

 

[Uncle Gump]

Did you try starting in netural?

 

[RobbieD]

Good; that should rule out an added starter interrupt.

 

[tw205]

Did the issue start after you installed new ignition switch and starter relay (solenoid)

If you jumper the transmission safety switch and it starts I would suspect the switch.

 

[gktbay]

Did you try starting in netural?

Yes, no start at all

 

[gktbay]

Did the issue start after you installed new ignition switch and starter relay (solenoid)

If you jumper the transmission safety switch and it starts I would suspect the switch.

Any new parts [solenoid & ign. switch (mounts on column) ] were installed after problem started, not prior. Side Note: Key tumbler, the switch activating rod and ignition switch - confirmed to move freely.

Regarding the TSS, where is that to be found? I need to try that.

 

[tw205]

It will be on the transmission but so will reverse lights and any electronic controls for the computer. A wiring diagram will give you the correct wire color to identify the connection. The circuit will have two wires. 12v in and out.

 

[tw205]

It looks like the backup lights and neutral switch are the same device. Red with white strip is 12v in and red with light blue strip is out to starter relay. If it’s like my A4LD I believe it’s on the right side of the trans. I