850 turbo not cranking over

Broken850 · Post by **Broken850** » 11 Jun 2015, 09:14

Hello,
Just had an issue that left me stranded. In the morning, she fired right up no problem. After work I tried to start as usual and the starter wouldn't react to the key switch. At the same time all the doors lock. If I try several times, a light smoke comes from the steering column. Battery is good, and jump starting doesn't change a thing. I'm thinking starter, but was hoping someone out there had a similar experience with the doors locking every time a start was attempted. Thanks in advance!

Post by **tryingbe** » 11 Jun 2015, 09:33

Sounds like you shorted a wire and caused smoke.

draser · Post by **draser** » 11 Jun 2015, 11:50

Is there an immobilizer in these cars, in ign. sw. area? I'd remove column covers and take a look.

Post by **abscate** » 11 Jun 2015, 14:26

Electrical part of the ignition switch, about 50 USD to replace new.

Post by **atucker1** » 11 Jun 2015, 14:45

Just FYI if you need instructions for ignition switch replacement Robert DIY (as usual) has an excellent video on youtube.

Broken850 · Post by **Broken850** » 13 Jun 2015, 12:01

Update time! I jumped 12v to the green solenoid wire and the starter just barely moved. So I jumped 12v to the starter side of the solenoid with heavy gauge wire. The starter turned the engine very slow and just for a half second. The battery is showing a healthy 12v and maintains 12 while trying to start. Decided to change the starter, but still no good. Pulled open the steering column covers and found a charred black wire that looks like a ground for the switch. Any suggestions?

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 13 Jun 2015, 12:48

Post up a picture of the melted wire and we will do our best with suggestions.

..Lee

Broken850 · Post by **Broken850** » 13 Jun 2015, 15:53

I removed a good section of burned wires and repaired several that I couldn't replace. She fired right up, but is hesitating. I'm thinking I have more damage elsewhere. Tomorrow is another day....

Broken850 · Post by **Broken850** » 14 Jun 2015, 09:58

More info.... I removed the ignition switch and I have 10-12 volts on the switch housing. Doesn't seem normal, but I'm not really sure. Any thoughts?

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 14 Jun 2015, 10:14

Battery voltage on the housing is a bad thing, it means the switch is shorted internally. You will need to replace the switch before you go much further on the wiring repairs.

...Lee