Engine not starting or cranking, where do I start?

[TX58]

My 58 with the 283 V8 doesn't start or even crank anymore. It started just fine a couple of weeks ago. Im still putting it together so it's not been driven just started here and there. It's wired to factory specs using factory type harness. It doesn't crank when I turn the key. I can start it by bumping the starter but it doesn't stay running, just cranks up then stops. Where do I begin to start checking the problem? The battery is new and charged and I just replaced the starter thinking that could be the problem. Still the same,how do I go about checkling each key component ? Does anyone have a diagram of the ignition and light switch wiring?
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[Nordic]

Hope these help

[solidaxel]

Must have Fuel- Spark- Compression the right amount at the right time.

One of those components is missing!

Fuel supply and the second wire (third) wire at the selonid to the dist, you said you replaced the starter did you transpose the two small wires to the distriutor.

Did you set the timing at top dead center on number one cylinder ( +10* degrees) check again and see if it is not pointing to number six cylinder.
are the spark plug wires in a clockwise position 1=8=4=3=6=5=7=2/

Keep us posted there are folks on here who will get you moving!

[mknittle]

is there a fuse in the ignition wire? it sounds like yournot getting power from the switch to the coil.

[OrrieG]

If it does not crank sounds like you might not be getting power to the switch. Look at the wiring diagram provided and start checking connections. Power to the starter (battery cables ok?). Power to the ig switch? I think it has a fusible link maybe that go blown? If that checks out then when you turn to start do you have power at the violet solenoid connection (energizes the solenoid)? Once you get it to crank and it does not start you need to check for power to the coil from the starter switch. There are two wires, one for start (direct) and one thru the resistor for run. If you have power to the coil in both positions but no spark then check the connection to the distributor. If that is good, then try another coil.

Good news is if it was running before it is probably just a loose wire, grounded connection or worse case faulty ignition switch if you did not replace that. I once got a "new" one that would supply power in start but not run position. I have a long jump wire with clips just for this type of testing (hot and with a multimeter).

[TX58]

Found the problem today, must have pulled the wire harness while installing the wiper motor. Both red and black wires were removed from the amp meter. Silly mistake
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