Intermittent starting problem

[Steeveedee]

Originally Posted by VetteVet

Well maybe:
If you jumped the ignition switch when it was in an intermittent phase and not working and then it worked when you jumped the switch, I'd agree. I'm thinking that's the case. Otherwise there's the possibility that it might be the neutral start switch not closed by the position of the gear selector, or the connection between the purple wires in the firewall block behind the fuse block.

It might be worthwhile to wait until the no start happens again and then jump to the ignition side of the neutral start switch. Don't bump the shift lever and if the starter turns it confirms that the key switch is bad. If not jiggle the shift lever and see if the starter turns then.

It is quite common for the NSS to get out of adjustment or wear down where it won't close the circuit between the purple wires.

Yup. Good diagnostic tip! I personally do not like to replace parts until the problem is properly diagnosed. I worked as a mechanic for many years, and the customers take a dim view of this, since they are paying for parts that didn't need to be replaced. The people who do this are called "parts changers", and are the bane of mechanics and their customers, world wide. Back in the day, if the coil got replaced unnecessarily, it was kind of bad. Now, when each electronic component costs something like a month's mortgage or rent, it is especially important to get it right.