I have an '03 s10 4 cyl 5 spd. All of a sudden My truck wont start. It has Never died while running or hesitated while starting before. Battery and alternator is new. When I put the key in everything comes on like normal.
When i try to turn it over nothing happens. The starter relay clicks like its getting power. I just checked the clutch switch and the contacts were a bit dirty so I cleaned them, still nothing. I tried bypassing it and still nothing. I have a new one on the way just in case.
I tried popping the clutch and the truck starts fine. I drove it around and the shift light does not go off when I push the clutch in, this is what led me to believe it was the clutch switch.
Until I get the new switch is there anything else I should look for? Also does connecting the purple and purple with white stripe wires successfully bypass it? Thanks in advance!

 

Ok just checked the clutch switch. Swapped it for a new one and it still didnt work.

 

Sounds like the starter is going out on you. You can test if power is getting to the solenoid on the starter by connecting a multimeter to the small post on the solenoid and watching the voltage as you turn the key to the start position. If you are getting +12V to the solenoid and have +12V to the large terminal on the starter, then the starter itself is at fault. You can also remove the starter and have it tested.

 

Im taking the starter off now, how do I get the wires off of it? I got the bolts out but cant reach the damn wires.

 

It is possible. I have rather large hands and have done it on a number of different occasions in the s-series trucks. It isn't fun, but the ability to work blind helps.

 

The starter tested fine so now ill check the wires from the battery

 

The cable from the battery to the starter looks fine, no nicks or cuts, continuity tests fine as well. What else could it be?

 

Are you seeing +12V on the smaller wire to the starter when the key is in the 'start' position?

 

the purple one? ill go check, if not then what could it be?

 

I don't have time to run through that right now, but I have run through the possibilities in other threads. Start searching around and you might come across it. Or maybe someone else can comment. If nothing else, I may have time later today.