1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

[Mike E.]

I just completely rewired a 71 (which included, of course, removal of the steering column) and absolutely everything electrical works the way it should. EXCEPT nothing happens when I turn the key to try and start it.
However, when I hook a remote starter switch up and push the button, it turns over nicely.
Because my favorite spot in my garage is underneath the dash of a C3 , I thought I would throw this out there before I proceed.
My first assumption is that I have an ignition switch-related issue. It did work before I rewired. My second assumption (proper or not?) is that it is not the neutral safety switch because the motor turns over with the remote start switch.
Am I on the right track or full of unwarranted assumptions?
For those of you who may have had experience with this, is it more likely that it is the connections to the switch, the switch itself, or the position of the switch on the column?
I appreciate any help you can lend.
BTW, this is what the wiring looked like behind the speedo an tach. A clear case of needing rewiring.
dash wiring before (1).jpg

[Mark E.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

Check the position of the switch on the column. The mounting location of the ignition switch is slotted and adjustable. If not properly positioned on the column, the rod from the lock to the switch may not engage the switch enough to energize the starting circuit.

I also replaced the dash harness on my '70 which has tilt/tele. When put back together, the car would only crank when the tilt column was in the down position because the position of the switch wasn't quite right. Apparently, the amount the rod engages the switch varies with tilt position.

This wasn't on purpose but I left it this way as a theft deterrent feature (and I'm too busy/lazy to fix it). It was frustrating figuring out what was going on though.

BTW, if you're connecting the remote starter switch to the starter solenoid, this bypasses the neutral safety switch. So this does not rule out a defective neutral safety switch. But, if the switches worked before tear down, it's likely the ignition switch and neutral safety still work and the problem is elsewhere.

[Mike E.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

Thanks, Mark. I am aware of how the switch mounts to the column--and I didn't move it and the screws were tight, so I pretty much ruled that out. Should have mentioned that in my initial post. Appreciate the thought on the neutral safety switch.

[Francais D.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

Maybe clutch safety switch

[Mark E.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

Thanks, Mark. I am aware of how the switch mounts to the column--and I didn't move it and the screws were tight, so I pretty much ruled that out. Should have mentioned that in my initial post. Appreciate the thought on the neutral safety switch.

It may still be productive to check the rod is energizing the switch by adjusting the switch position.

Francais- Mike mentions a neutral safety switch, so no clutch.

[Mike E.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

Perhaps my terminology is incorrect. In my circles, clutch safety switch and neutral safety switch are used interchangeably. It is a 4-speed.

[Francais D.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

sorry , I just saw the small pedal in picture and responded too quick

[Mark E.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

Perhaps my terminology is incorrect. In my circles, clutch safety switch and neutral safety switch are used interchangeably. It is a 4-speed.

They're different parts for different transmissions. You can start the engine in any gear including neutral with a clutch safety switch, so it's not a neutral safety.

So Francais is right... check the clutch safety also since it may have been disturbed while messing with the harness. Disturbing the neutral safety in an auto car is less likely, so I didn't mention it earlier.

[Bill B.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

Mike,

When you go to the Start position, does your ammeter swing to -40A? If so, you have high resistance in the circuit, and it is dropping too much voltage so that the starter solenoid will not pull in and turn the starter motor. The solenoid does two things: 1) throws out the pinion gear to engage the flywheel ring gear and 2) makes electrical contact from the BATT terminal to the Starter Motor terminal. A "bubba" repair to my Clutch Safety Switch interface wiring years ago resulted in my symptoms manifesting itself. It was rather perplexing, as the problem only occurred on hot days.

[Joseph S.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

Mike, Trace the Purple start wire. Jump it at the Clutch switch and then look at the console area. You may have an additional set of wires there for an Automatic car. If so jump it at that end also. Then see if it will crank. Plug the Clutch switch back in and test again.

[James G.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

I have had issues with reproduction dash and engine harnesses having incorrectly pinned (spaded) connectors.
There is the possibility that the column switch plug block may be incorrectly configured. - just make sure that it is pinned the same- iirc there are empty slots in it.
I got so frustrated with the last one where the temp gauge wouldn't operate. I did an EXTREMELY detailed comparison, even though it was ordered correctly and according to manufacturer made to GM specs, it was not configured the same as the orginal dash harness. I ended up unwrapping part of the original harness, replacing 2 wires back to the fuse box, rewrapping, and reusing the original harness, which operated everything without issue.

Just thought - make sure you have continuity through the fusible links & joints.
I know there is one at the starter, there may be another at the bulkhead connector/ firewall side.

HERE is a copy of the color laminated wire diagram which I find much easier to follow.

100_1200.jpg
100_1198.jpg

[Mike E.]

Re: 1971 Ignition Switch problem (not key switch)

Thanks for all the helpful replies. Turned out to be clutch safety switch issue.