Dead in the Driveway - Electrical help Please

[KTLX]

When I turn the key to start the engine nothing happens, the engine won't turn over. I tried cleaning the battery connections, I changed the ignition switch, and it still won't turn over, the starter solenoid doesn't even click. The lights, radio, etc. all work and the battery has 12 volts with the headlights on. If you can give me any help with this problem, it would be much appreciated

[sneakysnake]

Check the purple wire on the back of the starter,for loose and for 12v.
If you are getting 12v, then the solenoid is bad. If no 12v then check safety switch on column under dash.

[dan42]

Is it an automatic? (Nuetral safety switch...) if it is , push shifter lever up a little harder and see if that does it. The connection (I think) gets bad. It does on my '70 with a TH350.

[KTLX]

All, thanks for the great replies, 4 speed, to check the 12v to the solenoid, is it as simple as disconnecting the purple wire and putting a electrical tester to the solenoid and to the purple wire. Assume if the test light goes on the solenoid is dead

[ChevyC102007]

You could always try the "screwdriver cross method" with someone holding in the clutch so the truck wont roll ya over, thats another way to check and see if the solenoid is stuck, or try rapping on the starter with a hammer while someone trys to get the truck to turn over. Just my .02 cents

[sneakysnake]

Originally Posted by KTLX

, to check the 12v to the solenoid, is it as simple as disconnecting the purple wire and putting a electrical tester to the solenoid and to the purple wire.

Go from the purple wire with tester to ground ( any clean metal surface)

[wibilly]

with the key on red on purple wier and black to a good ground

[sb69chevy]

You may have checked this, but...Is the back nut tight on solenoid's battery terminal connection? Had this happen to me. Positive was "tight", but no juice was getting in there since the back nut was too far away from the solenoid. Just a thought.