No start condition

[Casey_SS]

Anyone got a list of the connections required for the starter to engage on 4th gen? I know there's a switch on the clutch pedal and the VATS deal but I think there's more than just those two.

Got everything wired up, all connections show good on the ohm meter and I have 12.5 volts on the starter, alternator, fuse panel, and junction box for the fusible links. there's just something preventing the starter ground from engaging when I turn the key. The gas tank is still out of the car....does it need a signal from the fuel pump?

I found you can easily swap the connectors for the brake pedal and the clutch pedal - switched these with no change. VATS is still enabled but will be tuned out hopefully tomorrow once I get a new license key for my tuning software (long story). What else?

[Fbody383]

http://shbox.com/1/starter_charging_96.jpg

Casey, this is one of those sites you just need to know about. This is for a '96; he also has a '93 and '95. Yours is likely similar.

Is the BCM still in the car? Looks like you need the BCM to take the theft deterant relay to ground to let the clutch safety switch energize the starter.

[Casey_SS]

Yeah, that's a great site but I had forgotten about it. this is exactly what I needed. Thanks!

Yep, BCM is still in the car and connected. Looks like VATS is the most likely suspect with all the other circuits testing good. Will tune that out tomorrow and see what I get...

Thanks!

[GlennCMC70]

Is the cluster plugged in?

[Casey_SS]

No....would that cause the starter to not engage?

[GlennCMC70]

I've seen LS 4th gens not start due to blown inst cluster fuses.

Try it.

[Casey_SS]

No dice. I've got all the normal dash lights, volt gauge works, etc. but starter still no turny. Double checked the fuses and they're all good...VATS?

[GlennCMC70]

There is that small pair of wires on the colum w/ the orange sleeve on it. That is the VATS circuit from the key. Is it plugged in?

[cobra132]

On the fords there is a feedback from the fuel system.

[AllZWay]

Double the check the wiring to the bottom of the steering column. I had a loose connection in the connector to the steering column.

Check and recheck the whole vats circuit.... that system is a real pain. I bought the vats bypass to avoid that crap after I had trouble.