1974 nova wiring problem (ground?)

[swilkins44]

I am trying to restore my '74 nova. It has sat for several years and ran before storing it. Now I have a good battery but the starter will not show any signs of power to it. I have interior lights but not all the other lights work correctly. Is there a wiring diagram available to trace the problem or any suggestions. Thanks.

[bobss396]

I would take off the terminals at the battery and starter and give them a good wire brushing. Dampness creeps in and causes the metals to oxidize and you get an insulating film and a no-crank condition. Do the firewall grounds too and one at the radiator wall if there is one. Look closely at the battery terminals and cables to make sure that the wires haven't turned green inside the insulation.

Bob

[swilkins44]

Thanks for the tip I'll try those and hope that is the problem, never thought of those areas or the insulating fact.

[Blue Bowtie]

While you're down there checking the wiring at the starter, you may want to give a gentle tug to each of the fusible links there to see if any have failed.

[swilkins44]

Thank you for all the info. I wasn't aware ther were fusable links in the car. I guess I'm a novice but willing to learn. Thanks again!!

[bobss396]

Good tip on the fusible links, you usually get a burning smell with those but may not notice it. They will feel like rubber bands instead of wires.

If that doesn't do it, pull the starter and have it bench tested. Spiders like to build nests in the solenoid, so watch out for them.

Bob

[swilkins44]

Thanks again for the info. This project just might happen after all!!