Starter problems?

1994 CHEVROLET 1500
200,000 MILES • 5.7L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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JOEL HDZ TINAJERO
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  • 15 POSTS
Okay, it began with starter problems. starter engages but it gets stuck in flex plate. Two times out of 100 it starts. Well, I replaced the neutral safety switch, cylinder lock, I shimmed starter I try it without shims. it just sounds like it does not have enough power to solenoid. Then I disconnect the negative wire from battery, and I connected to a test light and light goes on but not really bright light but when I turn headlights the light from light tester goes really bright. so, I took the stop fuse, and another fuse don't remember which one but is close to the stop fuses, what to do now?
Nov 2, 2022 at 7:58 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

When you tested with the test light, it was dim because there was little draw by the system, which is expected. When you turned on the lights, there was a larger power draw.

So, I need a bit of info. When the starter works those two times, does it always get stuck? If it does, have you tried shimming it to see if that was the problem?

Next, I'm confused about the fuse you removed. What were you checking when you did that?

Also, take a look through this link to see if it is at all helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Let me know.

Joe

Nov 2, 2022 at 1:16 PM
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JOEL HDZ TINAJERO
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  • 15 POSTS
Last night after I tight ground from block it starts like nothing no problem at all. I tried to start it this morning and it didn't, it's the same as before. can it be a short?
Nov 5, 2022 at 4:23 AM
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JOEL HDZ TINAJERO
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I pulled fuse when I test fuse box with key off and battery ground off. The stop fuse and another one I don't remember which one they both got 12v is it normal?
Nov 5, 2022 at 4:26 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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Hi Joel,

If you had the battery disconnected, there should be no power to the fuses. You indicated they got 12v to the fuses. Is that correct? If so, that makes no sense. It shouldn't get it so no, that isn't normal.

You indicated the starter worked properly after you tightened the ground cable. Do me a favor. Move the cable around (wiggle it) and see if it starts. You may have a bad cable that has internal damage under the insulation.

Let me know.

Joe
Nov 5, 2022 at 2:34 PM
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JOEL HDZ TINAJERO
  • MEMBER
  • 15 POSTS
Yes, negative cable from battery disconnected. took stop fuse out and check it with test light and multimeter it reads 12v and when I push brake pedal or turn headlights switch on it drop to 9v..this crap getting me crazy. I'll go ahead and work on it first thing in the morning.
Nov 5, 2022 at 4:04 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Joel,

The idea that the battery is disconnected doesn't make sense. That is the only power supply, so I'm confused.

Regardless, let me know if you find anything.

Take care,

Joe
Nov 5, 2022 at 4:58 PM
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