Hello,

I'm trying to get an F150/1997 started that's been sitting for about 2 years.

After installing the battery, turning the key, nothing happens. No click, no
turnover, nothing.

The dash lights come on along with open door chime.

Does anyone have a link for what to check first or troubleshoot this? The vehicle
was running fine when parked, battery removed.

Thanks.

I was thinking the brake pedal switch might be corroded, or maybe someone
unplugged something under the hood or tampered with something.

 

Brake switch has nothing to do with starting.
The Ignition switch in start position closes 12 volts to the transmission selector in either Park or Neutral for auto trans, or the clutch switched depressed or in Neutral if standard transmission.
Then to the starter relay on the fire wall.
That circuit is open.
.
My guess is this is only your first issue after setting that long, after you get the motor to crank over.
Think old fuel and all it's connotations after setting that long a time.
Good luck.

 

Thanks Bluegrass7

Is the start relay in the covered panel on the firewall by the battery?
I think I'll test this relay first.


I mentioned the brake pedal because you have to have your brake pedal
depressed to start, correct?

Edit: I found this diagram and I think it's all I need. Thanks for mentioning the start relay,
google did the rest. Many thanks.

XXX_http://ww2.justanswer.com/uploads/muddyford/2011-10-01_132132_1.png_XXX

 

The brake pedal in not involved in the start circuit.
Re-read my reply.
It covers both auto trans and manual trans equipped trucks for obvious reasons.
That being, starting is NOT allows with either transmission, in gear.
And as I mentioned, your likely the have other issues once you get the motor to crank due to the old gas in the tank and fuel lines.
Good luck.

 

Double check the battery voltage, connections, both positive and ground, on both ends.


Whooo hoooo 2500 posts!!! Only took me 13 years.

 

Make sure your key is the chipped key also. Don't ask me know I know this one. But I bought a 1999 and could not get it to turn over. Well asked the guy I bought it from and he remembered the key I had was cut but did not have the chip it in. so got the other key he still had. And it would turn over then.
Pete

 

The chipped keys started in 99. 97 and 98 didn't have them.

 

Thanks was not sure when Ford started them. I do know on my 99 model its caused issues. The guy that owned it before he, has it towed home on a Friday. He has tried to start it for an hour. Got it towed home and then found out he was using the extra key he had made to just open the doors with.