1997 Blazer S-10 4 x 4, 4.3 liter

Turn on ignition switch, panel lights come on, all power going, turn further to get the starter going, Nothing. This happened at work. I come out later, it starts right up. While it is still running, I take the car home, put it in the garage and leave it in Neutral. I turn off the power.

I come out this morning into the garage and try to start it. Again, turn on ignition switch, ignition lights come on, all power going, turn further to get the starter going, Nothing.

Having left it in Netural, I was able to push it out into the driveway. I now go into the car and try to start it again, It Fires right up. I jump in and head to a local dealer, Saturday they are booked. Service guys says that the starter might be binding up. I go and pick up a new starter and install it. I hit the key and it starts right up. I shut it down and start it again, about 5 times. All Happy Now, Not....

I Lower the car and clean up. Go to start and same thing. What else could be causing this?

 

Sounds much like a faulty ignition switch to me.

 

Could someone explain how the ignition switch functions and how it could affect shooting power to the starter? Also, how about the starter relay? Do they ever go bad and where are they located?

 

The ignition switch is what tells the starter to turn on as well as tell the PCM to add fuel, etc. What happens if you remove the key, reinsert it and try to start it again (when it's not starting properly)?

A relay would be bad or good. It wouldn't stop working, then suddenly start working again.

 

Just went outside. Hit the key. Started right up first time crank. Shut it off. Started up first crank again.

 

This one is messing up my brain. I am now leaning toward the ignition switch like you suggested. Something with the key itself.

 

Just went out again to start the Blazer. It is 6:59 here in Tooele, Utah. Fired 3 times. Fired up first click all 3 times.

Any ideas?

Millermotorsportspark.com


My second home.

Thanks for your input. Not sure how this one will play out.

Steve