starting issues

[62 bullitt]

My 62 is giving me problems when starting, sometimes I get nothing (not turning over) and then just start after a while, other times it will turn over but then stop like if it's draining the battery. I checked the battery and it's charging, how do I check my starter. It's definately an electrical issue not mechanical. Need help!!!!!

[simplyconnected]

You have a starter relay. What happens when you jump both big lugs together with one jumper cable? Does it start better?

Did you check your battery and ground connections? It takes TWO wires to complete a circuit.

If you get the same results after trying these suggestions, unbolt your starter motor and either fix it yourself or bring it in to an Auto Electric shop (they can test your starter and they guarantee their work).

Hope this helps. - Dave

[62 bullitt]

Thanks Dave, someone's already suggested I check my wiring and solenoid first. Haven't been able to do anything yet (raining the past week in Fl) shade tree mechanic. I'll let you know how it goes, thanks.

[62 bullitt]

Took off and cleaned up my wiring (battery to ground, solenoid and solenoid to starter, generator) which appeared to be clean but apparently wasn't and all is good now, thanks again Dave.

[62 bullitt]

It started doing it again but I think I figured it out might be my detent plate, it starts right up everytime when I hold the shift lever up. Think the detent plate is wearing down, not poping out of gear but slips just enough to where the car won't start.

[simplyconnected]

Your Neutral Switch can and should be adjusted.

[62 bullitt]

Can you brief me on this? Didn't know I could adjust just thought you bOught a new plate.

[simplyconnected]

The detent plate is a mechanical device that locks your shift lever into Park. As things wear over time, the mechanicals get sloppy which can cause your lever to slip into Reverse from the Park position. If yours is 'getting there', buy and install a new detent plate.

Your car also has an electrical switch that senses when your lever is in Park or Neutral. In those positions, the Neutral Switch allows current to your starter solenoid if you turn the key to Start.

The Neutral Switch is also used for folks with convertible tops. There is a screw adjustment on this switch, which allows contact closure ranging from, 'a little early' to 'a little late' as you cycle the shift lever. ALL automatics have a Neutral Switch (even new cars).

I hope this helps. - Dave

[62 bullitt]

Thanks again Dave, you've been really helpful. Is the neutral switch in the same area as the detent plate?

[simplyconnected]

Nooooo... it's farther down the steering column, but before it reaches the firewall. Look about half way down on the right for part number 7A247. That's the Neutral Switch. There are two part numbers because the 4-terminal is for the convertible.

[scumdog]

The detent plate is a mechanical device that locks your shift lever into Park. As things wear over time, the mechanicals get sloppy which can cause your lever to slip into Reverse from the Park position. If yours is 'getting there', buy and install a new detent plate.

And check the end of your shift-lever where it fits into your detent.

The shifter is (generally) 'softer' than the detent and it is that which seems to have the most wear.

[62 bullitt]

Dave, you ARE a wise man. Found the source of my headaches, the Safety Switch did not need to be adjusted but the contacts were severely corroded. Cleaned it up very carefully and all is okay until I order a new one. Thanks again for everything, JP