I just inherited a '98 Blazer that does not start. It was running fine and then after a trip to the store, it wouldn't start. The battery is good, cables cleaned at battery end, but not at the starter yet. Some previous posts indicate starter might be shot. I want to do as much testing before I have to take out starter. I see there's a "No start, Engine cranks" tech article, but not for no cranking. One post indicated there might be a fuse to check.

Can someone please direct me to a good step by step trouble-shooting procedure?

 

When you turn the key to start do you get any noise at all

 

if its not spinning over when you turn the key and it just "clicks" id call starter if you havent tried boosting the battery.

OR if NOTHING happens its probably the ignition switch.(lil switchy inside the steering column that sends power to the starter etc)

 

I can hear the fuel pump. I think that is all. I'm certain there's no clicking or anything else associated with the ignition.

 

All the lights come on, so the switch at least does something. I also tested power was getting to the starter, if I did it right. Is that a solenoid sitting above the starter or maybe its part of the starter where the wires from the battery land? I loosened the bolts and re-tightened them but do they need cleaning?

Is there anything else to be done before removing the starter and getting it tested?

 

Yes there is a solenoid on top of the starter motor. Check the voltage on the small terminal when the ignition key is turned to START, there should be 12V there only when the key is turned to START. This solenoid is also the source of the "click" when the key is turned to START but the battery is low and there is not enough power to turn the starter which turns the engine.

If all the starter is doing is "clicking" then either the battery is shot or the terminals/cables are dirty or need replacement.

If no 12V on the solenoid terminal then the ignition switch is likely shot and needs replacement.

Good luck.

 

Voltage is good at the small terminal. No clicking. Terminals good. I removed the starter and Advance Auto says it has a defective internal terminal. I'm hoping the starter from my parts '96 Blazer will work.

 

I believe the starters are the same between 96 and 98, so it should fit and work just fine, as long as the 96 starter works.

Did Advance Auto try tapping the starter during the testing? Could just be a stuck solenoid.

Anyways did the 96 starter work?

 

I don't think Advance did any tapping, while I was shopping for other stuff. I did some banging before I pulled it to no avail.

Fortunately the starter on the '96 worked perfectly. Only difficulty is getting one out and back in. There's zero clearance. Unless I missed the trick, you have to keep moving it around until it finally pops out. Replacement is just as frustrating.