[colbert66]

I think I have my starting system all wired correctly but I cannot get the starter to even click. I had my brother crank the key while I tried some bypass's recommended in my shop manual. While I was under the hood I realized that when he turned and held the key I would hear one and only one click coming from what I believe is the alternator regulator bolted to the front driverside of the engine compartment. Is this possibly the reason why my starter solenoid isnt transfering power to the starter post? Does that click mean there is something wrong with it and should be replaced? Thanks

[Veronica]

Hello. The regulator won't stop the starter motor from engaging. That circuit is a straight shot from the battery, through the solenoid and directly to the starter. When you turn the key to the start position that sends current to the starter solenoid, which completes the circuit from the positive battery post to the side of the starter motor. You could take the regulator, and the alternator, for that matter, and throw them in a box beside the car, and that won't stop the car from cranking. You have some other issue.

As a side note, the old school alternator regulators often make a clunky sort of click when the key is turned to the on position.

[colbert66]

So if the ignition switch isnt completing the circut to the starter post on the solenoid, than most likely there is a problem in either my ignition switch or the wiring from it to the solenoid?

[Veronica]

Hi again. It will be something in the starting system, like the switch, the wiring, the solenoid itself, etc... I would start with the obvious, easy stuff. Is the battery dead? Are both battery cables connected securely at both ends? Are the two small wires plugged into the front of the solenoid? That sort of stuff. You would be amazed by how easy it is to overlook the obvious. If that isn't the problem, and I doubt if it is, here's how the starting system on your car is supposed to work.
The Care and Feeding of Ponies: Starting system