Dodge B200 Starting Problems?

Question

So I've been having problems getting my 77 B200 318 automatic to start.

It used to be that I would turn the key and hear a click (relay I suppose) about 5 or 6 times, then the starter would start strong, or sometimes sound like it was grinding and going out.

Then, NOTHING -- Only the click, no starting at all.

It started strong by jumping the starter wires with screwdriver.

Then, I attempted to start it by crossing the ignition relay, again, starts beautifully. One thing I noticed, was that since I jumped the relay, it stopped clicking entirely.

I put in a new relay, and as the dope I am, didn't mount it to the firewall before attempting to turn the key, and nothing happened.

Ever since the relay stopped clicking, my reverse lights are ALWAYS ON -- in park AND drive.

summary::

New ignition switch, new battery, new (possibly dead) relay, starts fine when the relay is crossed, does not start otherwise (not even a relay click), reverse lights constantly on.

Thanks a bunch!

Answer 1

Neutral safety/backup light switch is out of adjustment...repair or replace. Probably on the lower part of the column under the dash. Try wiggling shifter up and down to start.