jay-71

Finally got a parts package in from PO and figured it out. I had a faulty ignition switch. Thanks for the diagrams, pics, and links though, I plan on cleaning up a lot of the wiring on it in the coming months. I have seen an uncomfortable amount of splicing while hunting the problem. Thanks again guys!

Thanks! I think I might have to cut out of work early today now that I know a quick way to be sure of the battery's condition. I am getting so ansy and worried knowing it's sitting on my curb, even though I'm in a cul-de-sac haha. And SteveJ shoot me a message next time you're in town. Maybe we could try and meet up, I am always up for some Z stories and seeing other S30's (there are barely any around here that I have seen).

Steve J - I am in the Huntsville area. And I plan on redoing a lot of wiring in a few months. Going to pull the motor to polish up oxidation on the motor and clean up some minimal battery tray rust. The guy at Auto Zone did a load test I think. He kept mentioning only voltage, I never heard about amps which makes me think it just doesn't have enough draw left in it to really crank it. The PO would unhook the terminals and let it sit in his garage for long periods of time (it has 94K original miles to give an idea of durations). Even though it's only 2 years old, a mix of cold winters and long intervals of charging I would think would kill a battery. I think I am going to just buy a new battery and then start tracking the suggested wires once I know I have proper draw. Does this sound like the right idea? I have never been the best electrical guy when it comes to automotive application.

Hello all, Just bought a 71 240 and when the PO was getting it ready for the shipping truck it wouldn't start so now it's sitting on the side of the road in my neighborhood with it's pristine uncracked dash I managed to get it to attempt to crank twice last night during hours of tinkering. Got the battery tested and it shows 12.6 volts, or so the guy at auto zone said. With the ignition switch at the ON position all the lights come on with a little coaxing and when I try to start it all I hear is a click from the right side of the passenger floor board. I also did clean up some corroded wire splicing going from the starter into the cabin as well. I don't know anything about the voltage regulators on these cars and would've done a more in-depth search but I am at work and REALLY want to get this thing in my garage as soon as possible. Any help would be appreciated!