I am trying to start my 82 zxt parts car engine. It has not been started for at least 6 years. I changed the oil and filter, put marvel mystery oil on the cylinders (through the spark plug holes), and have drained all the gas from the tank and refilled it. I left it rest for about two weeks thinking that the mystery oil would have a chance to work it's way around the rings and perhaps even down the cylinder walls before I tried to start it. After installing a fresh battery, the ignition switch would only make a faint clicking sound that I don't believe was coming from the starter. So, I then removed the old spark plugs and shorted across the two large started posts with a screwdriver in order to pump the mystery oil out of the plug holes and spin the engine over to get some fresh oil moving around. The engine turned over freely and after a short period I stopped this procedure, and installed the new plugs. So, having said all of the above, now when I jump across my starter, it will only spin and will not engage on the flywheel. Have I fried the starter and/or the ignition switch by shorting across the two posts on the starter? Also, the ignition switch is just "hanging" down at the steering column and the two red wires on it are not connected to anything. Will this effect the switch and prevent it from working? Does the switch have to be installed /grounded in order to work? Thanks for any advice and your help, ............mayolives.

Does the switch have to be installed /grounded in order to work?

No. I have tested them by just plugging it in without actually mounting it. The two red wires are just for the warning buzzer. Jumping the starter shouldn't cause the solenoid to act up. From what you say about it just clicking when you turn the key I think the solenoid was already bad. There may be a ground issue because turning the key should have the same effect as jumping the solenoid.

hello and how ya all doing? i need help. i bought a 76 datsun 280 from a friend. he told me all i need to change is the feul pump and the car will start up. i changed the pump and put in a battery. i tried to the start the car but not cranking or sing of trying to start. but all headlight and taillight turns on and off. pls help me solve this problem. any idea will help. i am also looking for a wiring diagram on how to installa an aftermarket stereo and installating racing on this car. thanks for your help.