Auto Parts: 99 Dodge Caravan Problem, dodge caravan, ground straps


Question
I did get underneath and check the wires to the starter. Here's the deal with that: There's one little one wire clip harness deal that goes on there. The guy who did the engine obviously broke the part on the solenoid that it plugs into because he's got a plastice strap holding it on there. I unplugged it and the van won't start. Plug it back in and it starts. Is it possible that being broke is causing it to not connect enough to work the always on power? I initially thought that, but since theres only one wire on that plug it seemed unlikely.
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
We have a 99 Caravan (3.3 Flex-Fuel). The engine blew a couple weeks ago. We got a new (used) engine and had a guy put it in. Everything is good except, the radio doesn't work, AND, when you turn off the key ALL power is gone. No headlights, door locks, dome light, nothing. If you turn the key off, it is dead.

I asked the guy about it and he said he hooked everything up and doesn't know why it would do that. You'd expect him to fix it especially after charging $250 more than he quoted, but I guess live and learn.

Any idea's?
Thanks
-----Answer-----
boy that is a good one. ive racked my little brain and can't think of anything that would cause all of the issues. i would start by checking the power wires at the starter for good contact and that the are on correctly. the problem is that none of those systems get there power through the switch so he definitly has something hooked up wrong. sorry but i really don't know where to start on this one. maybe take it to a good shop and have them look it over, i can't imagine they would charge you to much. make sure they look at the ground straps from the engine to the vehicle. good luck.

Answer
scott i did some leg work and asked around. no one can really come to a conclusion with out looking at the van. sounds like he might have really screwed something up royally. you might have to bite the bullet and take it to a real mechanic. sorry about the delay on the answer just wanted to get some more input from some of my friends.