Starter doesn't spin, no power to bottom 5 amp fuse

1983 CHEVROLET BLAZER
300,000 MILES • 6.2L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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GORDO22
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Hi, My older K5 full size diesel blazer has a problem with the starting system. Solenoid doesn't click to initiate the starter, and the bottom fuse (5 amp) ignition? Doesn't have power to either side, and with the key on, no power to the neutral safety switch at the bottom of the steering column. I've replaced the ignition switch, and cleaned the terminals at the (center) of the firewall. Last time I replaced the starter with a Bosch re-manufactured unit, I installed an extra wire to the starter to bypass the ignition switch (for testing purposes only), and when I touch it to the battery, the starter engages, and spins. I tested the fuse links that go to and from the starter and they have 12 volts at each end. The pink wire from the ignition going to the starter, but tested at the firewall bulkhead connector doesn't send power with the ignition in the start position. With the key in the run position, the radio, and dash lights work. The dome, and headlights work as they should. Do you have a wiring diagram for the starting system so I can locate where the power should be coming from to the fuse, and starter? Thank You all!
Mar 18, 2016 at 8:53 PM
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JDL
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Check your neutral switch. My wiring for this model year isn't that great. Voltage From the ignition switch to neutral switch to starter solenoid.
Mar 18, 2016 at 10:45 PM
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GORDO22
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Hi JDL, With the new ignition switch installed I have 12 volts going to upper wire(yellow) on small connector at neutral safety switch, but don't see voltage leaving the bottom wire (brown) through switch. I took the switch apart and cleaned it then applied silicone grease and reassembled. Old grease was hardened, and one contact point inside was half worn down which could be part of the problem. I will troubleshoot more tomorrow as it is dark, and 25 degrees out now. Thanks again!
Mar 19, 2016 at 1:32 AM
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HMAC300
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here is added purple wire engages starter not pink. recheck fusible links by twirling around as they may only have one or two strands connecting so not giving enough power.
Mar 19, 2016 at 4:39 PM
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GORDO22
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Thanks for the diagram HMAC300 for the wire diagram. Good news this morning, as I removed the neutral safety switch again to bench test it with a multi-meter and found that the backup light portion of the switch worked fine, but the starter portion rarely had conductivity as the switch was moved back and forth, and wiggled. I used pliers to tighten the play on the metal backing plate that holds the lever in position and the switch began working. After re-installation, the starter works as it should with the key. The old neutral safety switch should work fine for now until a new switch is purchased. Thanks much JDL, and HMAC300 for the insight, and assistance in repairing my K5 Blazer.
Mar 19, 2016 at 5:32 PM
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JDL
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We're glad you got it going your way.
Mar 19, 2016 at 7:39 PM