[davesyo]

On my 2001 ,I tried to start it yesterday and nothing ,no sound at all.Since my battery was 5 1/2 years old and I would have to give it a jump every so often and the voltage output was borderline I decided to replace it even though I knew I may also have a starter problem. Installing the new battery still left me with the same problem .Installed a new starter and problem solved but
I had to install it twice because a funny thing happened.On the first try as I was reinstalling the battery cables the starter began to click and kick over even though the key was in the off position .Got back under the van and took the starter back out and started over again making sure the wiring was hooked up right and not touching anywhere which is what I thought I did the first time .Even though I could not figure out where I went wrong upon removal and inspection the first time I know I must have shorted one of the wire leads somewhere going to the starter . Any other thoughts on this are welcome .

 

[Matrixx]

Hi davesyo

What you stated is accurate yes. When I do electrical work, I make sure I remove the negative post from the battery. Even when I replace spark plugs now and working from underneath to access them. I had quite a light show awhile back when I finished installing the plugs on the passenger side and was bringing the ratchet and extension down along side the stater, it was like the 4th of July with a front row seat, never even crossed my mind at the time that would happen, but it did, and lesson learned. That wire is live at all times.

 

[astro355]

A long time ago, I was helping a friend change the valve covers on a 84 Regal. He welded the valve cover to the back of the alternator because he didn't disconnect the battery. Good times.

 

[Matrixx]

That's a good one 55.

 

[davesyo]

It was actually a remanufactured starter from Duralast with a lifetime warranty .I hope it lasts