No Start

spikie · Jan 12th, 2004, 05:58 PM

I've a 1997 4x4 Nissan 2.4 5sp with a no-start condition. Machine won't even turn over, starter won't engage, etc. Possible problems I've come up with are starter, connections, starter solenoid, ignition switch, and clutch switch. Haven't found the clutch switch yet, but materials I see on these trucks on the internet say there is a clutch-interlock safety switch bypass on 1997 Nissan 4x4 pickups. I don't have any info about this bypass in anything I have on this truck. Has anyone got a clue what these writers are talking about and how it can be activated (this will help me eliminate one potential problem if someone can help me out).

Thanks -

Stuck at zero mph...

spikie

1997XETruck · Jan 12th, 2004, 06:45 PM

I've never heard of a bypass switch... but if you find one, please let me know!

I'd check the clutch interlock relay, which is in the under hood relay box on the right fenderwall. If you have a Factory Service Manual (FSM) check out EL-20 for a wiring diagram. If you don't have the FSM, and you have a high speed internet connection and $20 open on your credit card, you can go to www.nissan-techinfo.com and buy the one day viewing subscription to download the manual and TSBs as .pdf documents. There's also a green fusable link near the positive terminal that you can check.

I assume you've eliminated dirty battery terminal connections, low battery, etc.

Welcome to the club!

Heath

jadcock · Jan 12th, 2004, 07:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spikie

Haven't found the clutch switch yet, but materials I see on these trucks on the internet say there is a clutch-interlock safety switch bypass on 1997 Nissan 4x4 pickups. I don't have any info about this bypass in anything I have on this truck. Has anyone got a clue what these writers are talking about and how it can be activated (this will help me eliminate one potential problem if someone can help me out).

I've read that too. Mine has a permanent bypass switch. I think the previous owner cut the wires or something because I can start mine all day long with the clutch out.

Does your truck have the owner's manual still? That should explain the switch. I have a '95, and that year didn't have a bypass from the factory, so it doesn't explain it. Do as Heath says and download the service manual! Good stuff, that service manual.

spikie · Jan 14th, 2004, 12:23 AM

Good evening and thanks for the quick replies and the welcome.

I have eliminated the battery and connections - all seems kosher there and the battery is setting at about 12.8-13.2 volts so it's hot. The voltage doesn't drop off when the lights are turned on, the horn blows, brakelights work, radio is a happy and full camper, etc. so the battery indicates that it is ok. The starter and solenoid are in a great place for 4-wheeling, but they're a real stretch to try to work on. I'll go there as a last hope. The ignition switch is still a mystery - there is a possibilty that the contacts may be flaked or burnt off on the start circuit. The truck does have 160k+ a few on the odometer so there are a lot of starts on that switch.

Jadcock, you noted that your's was permanently bypassed - was that done off of the relay Heath mentions or just by wiring around the switch? Just curious and I'll jumper there if it looks feasible.

Heath, thanks for the link. I've a couple of people who may have a FSM for this little truck & if they don't I may part with the 20. The truck belongs to my youngest son who is in college, so he sure doesn't have the extra bucks laying around

$ By the time he can afford his own books, he will be able to afford a different truck and will likely have it. So pops has the opportunity, eh?

I will check out the fusible - forgot about that. The switch will power all accessories, so I'll jump the solenoid - that should point out or eliminate the switch. Bypass the clutch switch come heck or high water to eliminate that. Then will report back any successes or failures.

Thanks again for the welcome.

Spikie

1997XETruck · Jan 14th, 2004, 12:43 AM

I'd check the battery voltage while you have someone turn the key - just for the heck of it. I had a loose terminal connection on my Q once that would feed everything (dash, lights, etc.) but drop out when I tried the starter switch. I've also seen batteries read fine under a light load, but drop off drastically under the starter.

I agree with you though... the multiple switches (ignition, clutch pedal) and inhibitor relay are all suspect. Did you have any signs of troube in the past, or did you (or your son) just wake up one morning and it wouldn't start?

If all else fails just always park it backed in to a space facing downhill! You can always let it roll and then pop the clutch in 2nd (or 3rd depending on how fast you're coasting)

Heath

jadcock · Jan 14th, 2004, 07:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spikie

Jadcock, you noted that your's was permanently bypassed - was that done off of the relay Heath mentions or just by wiring around the switch? Just curious and I'll jumper there if it looks feasible.

When I was trying to troubleshoot my horn circuit, I noticed a black/green pair of wires down near the clutch pedal that were cut. I looked through my service manual and couldn't specifically find the circuit for the clutch interlock switch, but realized that those weren't the horn wires, and the only other thing that doesn't work correctly is that interlock switch (the truck will start with the clutch out), so I figured that those wires were cut intentionally. Just a guess.

lovemysan · Jan 14th, 2004, 07:49 AM

Well if your acccesories are working its prolly not the fusible link. Mine blew a couple of times. There are 2 or so one of them kills everything but the headlights.

As for your no start you can check your starter by finding the 2 wires that lead from the starter. THe 1 big one is the main power feed. The other small one is the solenoid kick. Just trace them out into the open. Stick a safety pen through the small one and hook a wire clip to it. TAKE THE TRUCK OUT OF GEAR. SET THE PARKING BRAKE. Then touch the other end of the wire clip to the positive terminal. IF the starter and soleniod are good the engine will turn over.

This is a good trick to know for broken ignition switches

davidbrugger · Jul 19th, 2009, 09:35 PM

my 97 4x4 wont start turn the key many times than it starts, no clicking wn=hen not starting. did you find your problem. thanks for any help