hello everyone!i have a 1987 vet with problem.i drive it often but last week had to charge battery & did ok for several days.went out yesterday & got no sound of connection to starter.charged again for 4 hrs & still nothing.lights,radio,etc. works.what do you think is problem?also checked fuses & all ok.could it be:battery,starter,security system or what?am limited to mechanical abilities so would appreciate info as where to start & go from on a list of possibilities to get corrected.thanks to all responces!!
jerrycorvette1@yahoo.com

 

There are a lot of possibilities,you named a lot of 'em. You might try jumping directly to the "S" terminal of the starter solenoid(it's the little one) from a +12v source. The big terminal on the alternator is one. Or if you have an assistant,you can put a test light on the "S" terminal and try to start. If the jump thing works,you'll just have to start eliminating causes. Igniyion switch,security system etc. If the test light shows power to the "S" terminal and no crank,it's probably the solenoid or the starter. If you get crank with the jumper ,while you're under there check the fusible links at the starter. You can often "feel" a blown link by feeling the wire,if it's blown there won't be any wire inside,you'll just have the insulation. Good Luck!
Ron

 

Your test is good, but I'm bettin' it's foreign language to jerry:
"no sound of connection to starter" You probably mean sound [to] fuel pump?
"charged again for 4 hrs & still nothing" Should have charged in 4 hours. Get some WD40 or penetrating lube on the terminal clamps, unscrew then, check for powdery corrosion. Reinstall the terminals, then plug in the charger again, or jump it with another car. If it doesn't jump, you have a short in the circuit.

At any rate, buy a multimeter ($10). You need one for EVERYTHING nowadays. Or better have TONS of cash for other people to do diagnostic work...