strange starting problem

[novafink]

Hi all,
I took my 96 lt-4 for a ride today and it ran great, when I got home I let it sit for about half an hour, and it would not start. The dash lit up just as it does normally, the battery light and the brake pressure light came on as normal, but when I turned the key, nothing. No clicks or dimming lights, just nothing. The car ran cool all day also while I was driving it, around 198. I waited an hour and tried again and it started. I checked the voltmeter and while starting it dropped clear into the red, so I thought maybe my battery was going bad, it seems on new cars when it goes, they do strange things. I bought the car used so I don't know how old the battery is, plus it was a delco and you had to tilt it to see the green dot. I had the battery tested and they said it was good, but I bought a new one anyways, I went up to the 900 amps. I tightened up the cables good when I put it back in, and now when I start it the voltmeter doesn't move nearly as much, it stays in the "good area" of the guage. The only other thing I can think of is the clutch switch stuck or something, does any one have any ideas, thanks.

 

[bradfordsvettes]

possible security problem you may need to get it scanned for codes just my 2 cents Steve

 

[WhalePirot]

You may have fixed the problem. I'd wait to see if it resurfaces, assuming the battery terminals were cleaned. If you have problems again, have the charging system checked.

Batteries can 'check fine', as they can take a 'surface charge', which is not enough to start a hot engine. Only a proper test, like auto-electric shops do, will indicate the system's problems.

 

[78SilvAnniv]

Heat soak in the starter?
I had a problem with the 78's starter getting hot with normal driving and it would need to cool off before it would start again. Or Kenny would have to crawl under it and tap it. We bought a shield and solved the problem.
Heidi

 

[ecss]

You need to watch the Security light on the left side of the dash cluster.

When you insert the key and turn the ignition key to run, the Security light will come on and go off if the key pellet in the key is read correctly.

If the key pellet is not read properly, the Security light will stay solid and not allow you to start the engine for about 5 minutes. Disconnecting and reconnecting the battery will not reset the timer delay. (Clean the key pellet with alcohol or try a different key, replace ignition cylinder or install bypass resistor).

If the Security light does go out and the engine won't crank, it could be the clutch safety switch, theft/starter enable relay or the starter and possibly the CCM.

You should be able to do a Fred Flintstone and push start the car and at least get the car home.

 

[WhalePirot]

We bought a shield and solved the problem.

Note that she referred to a shield (sheet metal) and not a blanket! I know Ken has a once-used blanket, as do I.

 

[novafink]

thanks for the info!