1996 Chevy Truck won't start sometimes.

DADDYDEAN

MEMBER
1996 CHEVROLET TRUCK

I have a 1996 Chevy pickup 5.0, 350 with 170000 miles. The truck won't start sometimes. When this happens the gauges will not energize nor does the fuel pump buzz. I have had the fuel pump checked and it works fine ( it is only 6months old ). I have also replaced the starter, but it still won't start some of the time. What could be the problem? What can I do to fix this?

6 Replies

BLACKOP555

MECHANIC
10,371 POSTS

I would check the ignition. It may not be engaging and telling the car to turn on.

When it does not start does anything come on like the radio?

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Saturday, November 3rd, 2007 AT 7:21 PM

DADDYDEAN

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3 POSTS

Yes. The radio does work and so does the lights and I believe everything else does also ( heat, AC )

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Saturday, November 3rd, 2007 AT 7:33 PM

BLACKOP555

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10,371 POSTS

So only the guages dont move and the check engine lights when the car is does not start?

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Saturday, November 3rd, 2007 AT 7:54 PM

DADDYDEAN

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3 POSTS

Yes. That is correct.

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Saturday, November 3rd, 2007 AT 8:17 PM

NITESPOT

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6 POSTS

Daddydean,
Check the positive battery cable for corrosion. Be sure to take the both wires apart. Separate the one that goes down to the starter from the one that goes across the radiator to the fuse box on the other side of the engine. Clean both sides with a wire brush until shiny and also clean the little spacer too. If there is a lot of corrosion and this helps, then take that stupid, red, rubber protective boot off the cable. I cut mine off with a knife and never had that problem again. Corrosion kept building up under the boot and I got tired of it. If that isn't the problem let me know, but it sure sounds like the problem I was having. Actually, let me know either way. Thanks.