86 K20 4x4 350 Holly Carb - Crank, No Start

[viaminveniam1939]

Hi Everyone -

1986 Chevy K20 5.7L 350 3-Speed 4x4 Manual Holly Carb

Truck was idling for about 7 mins, then suddenly shut off. She cranks, but will not light.

- Thought I might have run out of fuel (currently swapping out 1 or 2 tanks).
- I added fuel and then changed the inline (aftermarket) fuel filter (planned to do regardless).
- I popped the fuel line off and observed fuel being pumped out (manual fuel filter seemingly not the problem, though still could be I suppose). Fuel pump, based on the appearance of the gasket/seal, looks newer (can’t say for sure tho).
- Battery is good/charged.
- Have noticed that the ignition (key), turn signal indicator act as if they are “gummed up” (not crisp, if this makes sense). Replacements are in the mail. NOTE: once -only one time did this occur- during my initial efforts to restart the truck after she shut down, I noticed that turning the key to start produced NOTHING (no lights, no starter, etc.).

UPDATE (03/05 @ 20:45 est):
1) turn signals & brake lights are NOT working.

Because I lack a solid understanding of automotive systems and the relationships they have amongst each other… What are the next most logical diagnostics steps to take?

Thank you
Nick

 

[bucket]

Check for spark. You can get a cheap inline spark tester from a local parts store that will almost make it fool-proof to check for spark. You may need a helper to turn the key though.

 

[viaminveniam1939]

Will do, thank you! fyi—checked the rear lights and turn signals and they are NOT working.

 

[RustyPile]

Light failure and no start condition probably not related.. With any light failure, the first thing to check is fuses.. Simple fuse replacement will not cure the problem. The cause of the fuse blowing is due to excessive current flow.. Number one cause for this is a short in the circuit..

Adding to Bucket's suggestion.. If you find you have no spark, the number one cause (but not the ONLY cause) of this is ignition module failure.