Hi all, I'm not good with introductions but I'm new to the site and would like to start off by saying I have searched this topic al ot and couldn't find the kind of information I needed before I posted anything up here. So here it goes... My 72 Chevelle was running perfectly when stored last year and now that I have time to mess with it I've been spending quite some time trying to get it started. The alternator which was new last year had to be replaced again, along with the Voltage regulator, I changed the ignition switch and lock cylinder as well. The starter was tested out to be good and when I jumped it with a wire from the battery to the S terminal with the purple wire it cranks the motor over fine. The problem is: When I go to start the car all the accessories and lights work but I'm not able to crank the motor over, not even a click from the started... completely dead signal. I suspected it was the purple wire on the S terminal and when I checked that with a test light and the key in the on position, there was no signal. So, I followed the purple wire all the way through my harness with the test light and still no signal. The only other thing I can think of being wrong is the spot where the purple wire comes out from the junction on the firewall. Is there anyway of testing/fixing this problem. Have any of you ran into a similar situation? I really want to get my car running! Will the junction box have to be replaced, just for one wire? Sorry for the long post, but I tried to make it as descriptive as possible.
Thank you,
-Cyrus

Hello Cyrus,

Did you check the NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH?? This would be apart of the steering column for a column shift auto, or in the console for a console auto. A manual will incorporate the clutch pedal saftey switch. Remember, the power comes from the key switch, then goes into whatever safety switch you have BEFORE it leaves and heads to the starter. This is done so you can't start the car in gear.

We'd need more info about your car (transmission, what mods, etc for more help).

By the way, the purple wire shouldn't light a test light with the key "ON" it only gets power from the safety switch DURING the "starter cranking" key position.

Check the adjustment on your ignition switch. Doesn't sound like it's pushing the rod far enough.