On our '92 5.2 Dakota the starter motor won't kick in. Everything else comes on, lots of battery, tried it in P and N, (previously swapped out the neutral safety switch). Going to swap the Relay tomorrow. Not sure if this truck has a starter relay switch or not. Does anybody know. Thanks

 

Yes it has a relay. I would suggest to see if your getting power to the solenoid when the key is to the start position.

 

If you have or can get a remote start switch then try starting with that. If it starts you have a wiring problem and if it dont then you will need a starter.

 

You need to put a test light on the "tickle" wire on the starter to see if you're getting power down there when you turn the key. Then jump the large wire to the small wire on the starter to see if the starter is working. If you do the first test and the light doesn't light up, you then have to figure out if you're getting a signal to the relay, if so then the problem is between the relay and the starter. If not than your problem is between the relay and the switch. Also make sure you're getting power to the relay.

A.J.

 

does it click? if so tap it with something and try.

 

Just keep in mind that you can have a wire that will produce 12 volts but will not actually run a 12 volt component. If the wire is breaking down internally then the wire can supply the proper 12 volt but not the amperage that is actually needed for the component. If you have no amperage then its the same as not having voltage.

 

Thanks for the replies, didn't have any time to work on it yesterday, hope I can get at it today.

 

You're right, I forgot about that. I have a headlight bulb with alligator clips on it to "load" a circuit to test wire and connection integrity. If it comes in handy for testing fuel pump circuits.

A.J.

 

Well we swapped the starter today for a used one we had here and the Dak started. We tested the original starter on the bench and it spins good. We didn't notice before but the radio/clock and seat belt buzzer were not working when we turned the key on but now they are ? ? ?