No lights or buzzer when turn key - 2GM20F on 28.5

[Eric Lorgus]

I know I've read what makes this happen. Something not hooked up correctly. But can't remember what the "something" is.I pulled the starter motor out in January for troubleshooting. Put it back today, but not too sure which wires went to which posts (maybe this is the problem?). Got it all back together, but when turned key, nothing. No idiot lights, no buzzer. Push starter button -- still nothing. Shorted the solenoid terminals with a screw driver and it spun, so at least I know I have juice at the solenoid.Any ideas? Am supposed to sail from Baltimore to Havre de Grace on Saturday. It's looking like it will be a sailing-only trip. And I know that's how they used to do it in the olden days, but just how did they sail out of one slip and into another?Eric Lorguss/v Explorer H285 '87

 

[Jim]

starter problem

if you have power at the solenoid to spin it you will be able to start engine. cross the solnoid start,the engine.leave it run for the entire trip if you need to.

 

[Paul Akers]

I'd also replace the wire connector!

*!

 

[Eric Lorgus]

And the answer is...

I had the connections to the starter wrong -- the positive post should have had all 3 ring terminals and the other post none. Seems odd to me, but after trial & error, that's what worked.