No crank condition?

1988 LINCOLN TOWN CAR

80,000 MILES • 5.0L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

STRICTLYDIMES

MEMBER
29 POSTS

Installed new starter and solenoid on fender wall. Fresh battery.
Does not crank.
Even tried in neutral, still no crank.

Not very good with electronic controls in cars, but I’m willing to give it a try.

Is there any other simple things I can swap out like relays etc., before I get too involved here?

Thanks

Sep 15, 2023 at 2:18 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓Experienced Mechanic
110,240 POSTS

Hi,

I need you to check if there is power to the solenoid/relay on the fender via the red wire. If there is, have a helper turn the key to the start position while you check for power at the red wire with a light blue tracer on the solenoid/relay.

Do this and let me know what you find.

I attached the wiring schematic below for the starter circuit so that you would have a reference. Note the highlighted items. Those are areas we need to check for power. Start with the two things I mentioned above and let me know the results.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to enlarge)

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Sep 15, 2023 at 3:20 PM

STRICTLYDIMES

MEMBER
29 POSTS

Thank you, just some clarification. I should Put a Test light’s alligator clip on the positive battery post?

Sep 15, 2023 at 3:57 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓Experienced Mechanic
110,240 POSTS

Hi,

When you check for power, put the alligator clip on the battery negative.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Sep 16, 2023 at 2:15 PM

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