RE: [Chrysler300] 300C starter button fail

There is an important vacuum switch in that circuit too….all smart thinking. You push neutral button with engine idling,( obviously, IN neutral!) it would crank, even if running . Jumping it with engine bump clip on buttons etc at the relay might cost you a starter and torque converter, as well as make car take off if not in real neutral. ; incorrect connections on some relay variations can lock it on from the ignition power wire used to jump the ballast. . Be sure you know and understand the wiring involved, not just clip on some two spots and “see if that works” .

I have seen that vacuum switch ‘jumped out” ….it does fail a lot, back in the day. You push N, grind up the starter and TC. Or more commonly, no crank at all.

From: Chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:Chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of ldmiklas@xxxxxxxxxxx [Chrysler300]
Sent: Sunday, September 04, 2016 4:26 PM
To: chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [Chrysler300] 300C starter button fail

Thanks to all who responded to my inquiry. Problem was the neutral safety switch as most of you suggested.

I'm glad I asked for help - You all saved me a day of R & R ing the starter button.

I never considered the neutral safety I think because the button has to be depressed into Neutral first....which led me to wonder why a neutral safety is needed

at all for this particular set-up.... until I realized I had been jumping the starter at the relay while grounding the neutral terminal to check it. Reminded me of the time

I started my sons 70 Barracuda in the driveway after he had done some wiring work --- went straight through the garage door !!!

Thanks again !!

Jeff Miklas