1985 C20: Power to cab, will not start when key is in "on" position

[1985C20FLATBED]

Hello All,

Recently acquired a 1985 Chevy C20 w/ a 350 and its Automatic. Truck is completely stock outside of some extra work lights installed by previous owners. When I turn the key the cab has power, buzzer goes off, dash lights on, etc. When I turn the key to the on position nothing happens. Truck worked fine until one day it didn't. It has a new battery and the fusible link is new. Looking for some guidance, I've heard ignition switch or neutral safety switch would be a good start but would like some advice prior to getting into it. Thanks

 

[legopnuematic]

Is it a tilt column?

 

[DoubleDingo]

Yeah, neutral safety switch would be a good place to start.

 

[Sad Sack]

Does it start / turn over with a remote starter switch employed?

 

[1985C20FLATBED]

Is it a tilt column?

It is not

 

[1985C20FLATBED]

Does it start / turn over with a remote starter switch employed?

I have not tried I don’t have one

 

[1985C20FLATBED]

Yeah, neutral safety switch would be a good place to start.

Should I try that before the ignition switch?

 

[Mr Clean]

 

[DoubleDingo]

Should I try that before the ignition switch?

I would

 

[Sad Sack]

Should I try that before the ignition switch?

One can always perform that with a screwdriver as a backup. Basically you're bypassing the ignition switch which should tell you a couple things if starter does or doesn't engage.

 

[Sad Sack]

I have not tried I don’t have one

They are an inexpensive and handy tool to have around. Prices hover around $20

Amazon.com

 

[legopnuematic]

The neutral safety witch on these trucks (automatics) are on the steering column, sometimes they get can get out of adjustment for various reasons. They should allow the truck to be started in park or neutral, with your foot in the brake you can hold the key in the start position and pull the gear lever from park and down past neutral, if it cranks at some point doing that then the NSS is worn or out of adjustment.