New starter, new problem!

[04 Sierra beast]

Over the past few months I've been having starter issues. I would have to beat the starter just to get it to crank. It only did this sometimes. So, I bought a new starter. While installing it I realized the aftermarket version from autozone was longer by about an inch. In order to install it I had to snip the oil level sensor wires. I eventually got the starter in, bolted up, those wires respliced back together, all good. No...I turned the key and it cranks like a champ but now it wont fire. I'm gonna check the fuel pump relay but I really dont think that's it. Anyone have any ideas?

 

[Bill325]

It sounds like the cutting of the oil level wires may have triggered a safety interlock that prevents the engine from firing. Are there any OBD codes showing that might indicate such a problem ? Perhaps if you clear any and all trouble codes, it might solve the problem. Make sure the oil level wire splices are done well , and not shorting to ground. Also, be sure a fuse was not blown during your work .

 

[04 Sierra beast]

Ok, I checked, there are no OBD codes coming up. No safety interlock light is on. I checked all my fuses, all good there, and i take pride in wiring, it is done very well, wire connectors, tightly wrapped with electrical tape. I'm just stumped! The only thing I can think of is maybe a relay got blown or that sensor is fried. You have any other ides?

 

[Bill325]

At one time, some vehicles got their ignition current from a connection on the starter motor solenoid . An incorrect connection there could allow the starter to work, but might not provide current to the ignition. That's probably old technology compared to your '04 truck, but it's about the only other thing I can think of. Good luck.