Ok, well after much searching I haven't found any other threads with a situation just like mine. First off the truck is an 88 RC LB 2wd 4.9 with a 5spd. I had off and on had issues with it starting (I rarely drive he truck as I have a work van I drive most of the time) the symptoms I would notice then would be when I turn the key to the start position the entire truck would short out and loose power. After turning the key a few times it would fire right up and I would blow it off. Well if finally died one day and would refuse to start. I've so far done this.

Checked the battery voltage: Good
Replaced the starter solenoid
Replaced the ignition switch (even tried switching back to the old one with no change)
Already has brand new terminals

Now the current symptoms are this, with the new switch installed the tumbler operates normally, no shorting when going to the start position but I get zero response from the starter. So I keep the key in that position, pop the hood and use a screwdriver to cross the posts on the solenoid and the truck fires right up.

Anyone have any ideas?

Thanks,
Tom

 

You must have a short in the signal wire that runs from the ignition switch to the solenoid. I just ran a push button with a wire to my signal wire. I have to turn the key to the on position and just hit my starter button. You could re-run the original wire to keep the functionality, but that sounds like your problem