96 Blazer electrics die when trying to start

[ChrisBlazerLT]

Out of the blue my Blazer developed an electrical problem where the electrical system seems to die, like there's a huge drain on the batter, when I try and crank the car. I got it started a couple of times, but not any more.

I read about the ignition switch being a problem, and that sounded like the problem, so I just changed it. Unfortunately the same thing happens.

My batter is good...but it does get drained somehow. None of the fuses in the fuse panel are blown.

When I jump start the car, it tries to turn over, splutters and then cuts out again.

Any ideas what might be going on before I tow it to the shop and admit defeat?

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Mikado14]

Remove the battery and have someone give you a ride to an Auto Parts store such as Autozone or equivalent. Someone who will do a load test on the battery. Just don't assume a battery is good, even with a voltage check, it should be load tested.

[ChrisBlazerLT]

Originally Posted by Mikado14

Remove the battery and have someone give you a ride to an Auto Parts store such as Autozone or equivalent. Someone who will do a load test on the battery. Just don't assume a battery is good, even with a voltage check, it should be load tested.

Thanks for the quick reply. I have done this twice already, that's why I dont think it's the battery.

It's been a little tough to start lately, and the last time I had some work done on it the shop said the fuel pump was on the way out because they had trouble starting it also. Is this symptomatic of the fuel pump? Could the fuel pump jam and draw excessive current or something?

Thanks again.

[Mikado14]

I have never run across a situation where the fuel pump would draw that much current.

Perhaps the first thing here is to establish that the fuel pump is operating. Do you here it when you first turn the key on? It should run for a few seconds and stop. Next, you need to determine (if it is running) if it is putting out enough pressure. That will require a fuel pressure guage that will connect at the schrader valve of the fuel line or rail.

[ChrisBlazerLT]

Would you believe it! I just took the battery off charge, slammed it in the car, and it starter first time.

I reckon I have a bad battery terminal, or it just wasn't tightened up enough. Hence not enough juice to crank the engine! Anyway, that's what I'm hoping. After all, I have got it started before during the week only to have it conk out on me again.

Thanks for you help.

[PBking82]

I had what sounds like the same problem. My battery was blown and then it started doing the same things about a week after I put the new battery in it. The problem was my battery terminal was way too long. I was using the streetwires GM-truck terminal that allows you to hook an amplifier power wire to it. I cut about 1/2 an inch of the terminal and its all snug now and works good. Maybe this is your problem. Peace-

[ChrisBlazerLT]

Double-drats...just when I thought I'd got it licked.
I came home tonight, pulled up outside the house, came out again 5 minuntes later, and the problem is back!

Basically, I go and try and crank it and all the lights dim and I get nothing but clicking.

Is there a relay that diverts all electrical power to the starter motor? Could there be a problem in that area? I've checked the battery terminals again. The negative is in perfect condition, but the positive is looking a bit corroded. I cleaned it up as best I could in the dark, but that didn't help though.

Help before I beat this truck with a big stick!!!

[cubanlorenzo]

I had a similar problem wiht my 95. my fuel pump was bad. i kept trying to start it and then my starter motor went. so i had to get those replaced. when i jumped started my car, it worked the first 5 times, but after that it completely died. hope this helps

[chcknugget]

I had the same problem. Check your starter connections. If all you get is clicking, then your selonoid is charging (drawing current), but the starter isn't engaging. The starter and solenoid is one unit (2 tubes), right by the passenger side wheel well and can easily get corroded by road debris. There are 3 terminals. I undid all three, scrubbed with a wire brush and terminal cleaner, put it back together, and have had no problems. 2 mechanics claimed I needed a new starter, and with labor this costs almost $500, because the job requires engine lifting, but i would try this first.

Oh yeah- I had sparks flying from the starter terminals when the key was turned. Just have your gf turn the key, and if you see sparks flying from the starter, you know what the problem is.

[BlazerLT]

For the love of fuck ChrisBlazerLT, get your alternator and battery checked.

[ChrisBlazerLT]

If only life were that simple BlazerLT!
I have had the battery check twice in the last week, and a new alternator fitted less than a year ago.
I think a beating with a stick is the only thing for it. :-)

[BlazerLT]

I could care less that you got your alternator replaced a year ago, it is not up to snuff and is draining the battery.

Stop arguing with the advice given and actually get off of your ass and do it.