1980: Neutral safety switch..

**401KVet** · 04-13-12, 07:41 PM

I think I am having a problem, but really not sure. When the neutral safety switch goes out, or not functioning as it should, what are the symptoms? What will it not do, and also what will it do if it's bad?

**bill81vette** · 04-14-12, 08:55 AM

the neutral Safety will not let you start the vette if it is in any gear..
you MUST be in neutral or park to start it.

If Its an auto,try moving your shifter forward or back wards thru park and neutral,to see if the starter engages
IF you have a 4 spd the clutch MUST be depressed to check and see if the starter engages.
The switch for the auto's are under the console next to the shifter.4spds are by the clutch(I believe)
Good Luck!!!!!

**401KVet** · 04-14-12, 12:36 PM

Originally Posted by bill81vette

the neutral Safety will not let you start the vette if it is in any gear..
you MUST be in neutral or park to start it.

If Its an auto,try moving your shifter forward or back wards thru park and neutral,to see if the starter engages
IF you have a 4 spd the clutch MUST be depressed to check and see if the starter engages.
The switch for the auto's are under the console next to the shifter.4spds are by the clutch(I believe)
Good Luck!!!!!

I haven't tried to start it in anything but park. I've been working on the center console and the battery is disconnected right now. But this is what I have noticed which makes me question the switch. While the engine is running I can put it in gear without applying the brake. OH, it's a automatic. With the engine off, no key in ignition, I can put it in gear or neutral with no brakes applied. I know the newer cars will not let you do that but I'm not certain about a 80 C3. Thanks,