1996 Plymouth Voyager Starting problems

What does it do? One loud clunk but doesn't crank? No click from the relay? Do the dash lights turn on like normal? Any other observations?

No ground wire on the starter. Its bolted right to the engine / transmission.

Based on the "no click" observation, there are two things that come to mind.

Starting with the '96 models, the neutral safety switch no longer simply grounds the starter relay. Instead, the neutral safety switch feeds a pin of the engine computer which grounds the starter relay. I did have one '96 Caravan still under warranty that would not crank due to the engine computer.

A more common problem is a broken cam on the end of the ignition switch cylinder. The switch will turn not quite far enough to get to the "crank" position.

Both problems can be detected at the starter relay socket under the hood. How did you check the relay? I get the impression you know what to do with a voltmeter or test light. Is that correct?

Caradiodoc

To clarify, you won't notice the cracked cam on the ignition switch. It will feel normal. Rather than removing it for inspection, grab a voltmeter or test light and head to the starter relay socket.

First, I have to grab a service manual. While I'm napping, ... Ah, ... I mean searching, pop the cover off the starter relay, reinstall the relay, then squeeze the contact. If the starter cranks, that will eliminate it and the wiring to the starter including the heavy battery cable.

Caradiodoc

All right. One in a row!

I can't find any reference to that part in my '97 service manual. If you would like to figure out which circuit that part is in, you can measure voltages and continuity at the terminals of the starter relay socket.

I'm headed out of town now. Will be back in a few hours.

Caradiodoc