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Starter Engages With Switch in the Off Position

My starter will engage and turn with the ignition switch in the "Off" position. I know this isn't correct, but I'm not sure where to start troubleshooting. This is the ignition switch I am using:

8380700_a.jpg

It looks like it is hooked up correctly, the numbers match up, with 85 remaining unattached for as a power shunt for the heater (to be installed later).


I converted over from a 12 volt hack job so I have never started the M38A1 with the 24 volt system.
 

Evil Dr. Porkchop

Well-known member
Supporting Vendor
I'm pretty sure that's normal for an m38a1. At least it is for m37s and m151s, I don't see why an m38a1 would be different.
 

SturmTyger380

Active member
Yep. Sometimes I am cranking away wondering why it won't start. Then DUH! Turn the switch on dummy!

This is why I have a battery disconnect switch cause the starter switch always has power and if carbon is built up in there elec will leak down.
 
Yep. Sometimes I am cranking away wondering why it won't start. Then DUH! Turn the switch on dummy!

This is why I have a battery disconnect switch cause the starter switch always has power and if carbon is built up in there elec will leak down.
Thanks, I wondered why everyone seems to have those. That's a good idea, I'm going to install one. Thanks!
 

SturmTyger380

Active member
My M38A1 has the thumb screw battery cover. At first I had my disconnect inside there on the negative of the battery. That became such a pain unscrewing all those thumb screws each time I parked and started up. So I found a disconnect that was for a side post battery and mounted that down on the battery ground wire down along the passenger side of the engine compartment near the voltage regulator. So now I only have to open the hood to connect the batteries. Much easier and plus I am in there checking the oil and other things anyway.
 
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