starting problem

[redbone]

My ride is a '77 fj40. The problem is that when I try to start it the starter just spins without the motor trying to crank. When I release the key is when the motor starts. This sounds like it is how it is supposed to work, but the motor doesn't sound like it is even trying to fire until the key is released.
I just installed a new NAPA gear reduction starter and the problem is still there. I was wondering if it could be in the ignition switch. It is an aftermarket switch that the PO put in. By the way this starter is now $175 with tax before core refund.

 

[bsmith123]

start vs run

you have two position on your sw one is for start and one for run that go to the pos side of the coil

if the run pos was bad it would crank and fire with the key in start then die when you let go of it but you have the opposite it sounds like,----no juice in start but you have it in the run pos

The sw shoud be marked something like IGN and ST on the back

but you can just check with a meter at the coil

The wire hooks up on the start solenoid and is controlled by the st pos on the ignition switch

could be the wire, switch, terminal on the solenoid, check the connections again and make sure you didnt leave a small wire off the solenoid

 

[redbone]

This started with the original starter. I hoped it was in the solenoid so I splurged and put on the NAPA gear reduction starter but the problem continues. I had read on the FAQ to hook up the main connections and tape up the third wire. I saw a picture on FAQ and hooked my connections the same. I will try a new switch tomorrow. thanks bsmith123

 

[redbone]

This problem still continues. I have put on a gr starter and a new ignition switch. The starter is installed like the picture from Landpimp in the faq. The problem is when I turn the key to crank the motor spins but will not actually start until I release the key. I have the power from the battery and the wire from the ign. switch hooked to the starter. Is there something else that could be causing this?

 

[1sttime40]

broken wire?

Someone correct me if I am wrong but doesn't the coil get get +12vDC through the starter when the switch is in the start position? Then when the switch is released to run, the coil gets +12 directly from the switch. I would say you have a good switch and starter, but you are loosing the voltage from the starter to the coil when the starter is engaged. There should be a wire connected from the starter to the + side on the coil that might be broken. Check continuity from the + side of the coil to the Black with White wire on the starter.

 

[redbone]

I have been searching and trying to learn about starter wiring. I am not completely understanding it all. I am by no means a wiring expert. I have put on a new ignition switch. I have put on a new NAPA gear reduction starter. If I understand what is in the FAQ and other posts all I need is the pos. wire from the battery and a wire from the ignition to the starter. The third wire is not needed and is to be taped up. This bypasses the ballast resistor. Will this work on my 1977 fj40? Or do i need the the third wire? I don't remember a place on the starter for a third wire. If it is needed tell me how it is hooked up. Thanks.

 

[Texx]

replace your switch on the non key side (remove clam shell, switch can be pulled out by one tiny phillips).

 

[ibinazbass]

you are not getting any juice to your coil during cranking. the inertia of the crank is spinning the engine enough after the key is set to run that the engine will fire. do you have pic/part number of the starter you're using. if i can see the set up i can probably help...

logan

 

[redbone]

The starter is a rebuilt NAPA. Look in the FAQ for gear reduction starter. Second page, first post ( I think) by Landpimp. I agree with your dx, but in the faq some say I don't need the wire from the starter to boost the coil. Others say they had to do some additional wiring. There is only connections on the starter for the battery wire, ignition wire and I think a wire from the fuse box. Sorry it took awhile to get back. I've been in the big truck on the road all week. Thanks for the help.
edit info; The post in FAQ is #18 by John Smith. That is the starter I have. How do I hookup a wire from the starter to the coil??