wont start, engine not turning over.

[JoeMc]

Hi, new member with '98 Montana.

I've had the van for a couple months and it has always started with no problems until yesterday.

The engine does not turn over at all, no clicking from solenoid. I'm pretty sure the battery is fine, as lights work, dash lights up, all power features are working.

I tried disconnecting the battery to hopefully reset something, but no difference. Left battery disconnected for 15mins.

Now I'm wondering if its something to do with anti-theft, or maybe the starter solenoid?

Is this a common problem? (search didn't turn up too much)

Where should I start looking?

Thanks,
Joe

 

[melsg5]

turn the lights on and watch them as someone turns the key, do they go very dim? Check battery connections and ground connection, and starter solenoid connection.

 

[JoeMc]

Thanks for the tips.

The headlights did not dim while key was turned. Automatic sliding door runs normal. So the battery should be good.
Battery and ground connections are secure.
Connections at starter solenoid are secure.
Checked for power at solenoid. It is getting power and the terminal that feeds the starter motor is getting power while key is turned.
So I am now pretty sure that the starter motor is not working.

I'm sure glad it didn't turn out to be some hard to track down electronic problem.

 

[tv29512]

wont start, engine not turning over

I have the same exact problem above except for I took the starter out and had it inspected at the local parts supply store and the motor and selonoid are fine. Any wise nuggets of info?

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[Drools]

I have the exact same problem, I have checked the starter solenoid and I can start the van by using a wire to bypass the solenoid. I have noticed the voltage on the PCM/ABS fuse to be about 5 volts which I'm not sure if that is normal. In the book , the relay that controls the solenoid is a 12VDC relay so having 5VDC on the line that controls the relay is not going to make it click.
I even replaced the Park/Netural safety switch.
Can someone check the voltage on their PCM/ABS fuse and tell me what it should be? I suspect something is causing a voltage drain.

Thanks