OK, the part where you put the key is not the ignition switch, that is called the lock cylinder. I am talking about the ignition switch which is on top of the steering column near the firewall. Pull that off and then use a screwdriver to actuate it by hand.

 

Jas88: Thanks...just wanted to clarify Yup, that was the first thing I did when I installed the switch 'cuz I was anxious to see if the switch was the issue. Imagine my disappointment when she didn't just fire right up... Drat!

 

Anybody else got anything? Like maybe where that elusive fusible link that was mentioned might be in the start circuit to go in that direction...
Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?
Thanks

 

the fuse links are USUALLY connected to the starter relay battery post and then go into the wiring harness. the only way to really find it is to use a test light and start probing for a dead wire.

 

@tjctransporth, poop. I'll try to check it out tomorrow. Thanks and I'll keep you posted...

 

The start wire (red w/blue tracer) runs through the clutch safety switch, it also runs through the neutral safety switch on automatic transmissions.

Our trucks have the connectors for both types of transmissions. The wiring diagrams I have showed these wired in parallel, but they are not, they run in series.

I went through this same thing about 6 mts ago, fixed actuator, replaced keyswitch, repaired hacked wiring, and bypassed clutch switch, still no start.

Started tracing down the loss of power to the start wire and eventually found that at some time in the past the extra connector that would have plugged into an automatic had come loose and apparently drug on the road and the jumper came apart. Somebody had wrapped it in tape and shoved it behind the crossmember. I found it, jumped the wires and the truck started like it should.

Maybe this is where you are losing power too. Worth a look anyway.

 

Well, apparently, this white man can't jump... Let this be a lesson...
Sooo, lots of good info on trying to fix this no start issue.
Bottom line is that I had to get this truck out of the driveway. I didn't have the know how, etc., to track down a fusible link, bad wire, etc. Soooo, as a last resort, I was going to give up & just keep the impromptu "starter button"...
Just for giggles and grins, I jumped the clutch safety switch just one more time... and wiggled the jump wire. And, guess what (yup, I know you did...) the engine kicked over & cranked right up.
So, I guess it's the clutch safety switch in this case. I guess what I'm saying is... make sure that when you make a jump that you have an excellent contact, or else everything can be thrown off the path.
I'm going to buy a clutch safety switch and make the install. If that's NOT the issue, I'll let you know.
Thanks for everything, guys...

 

sounds like maybe you have it solved .
in my case, i swapped out the clutch saftey switch with one from the wreckers and still no-start. i am wondering now whether these switches are known to be problematic with age ???

when i get a chance i will try the jumper wire in there and see what happens. at least now i know what colour wire to look for thanks to you guys.