Subaru Repair: 1991 Loyale- Starting Problem, electrical faults, blown fuse

Question
QUESTION: Original starting problem was trouble shot to a solenoid, integral to the starter.  The solenoid would intermittently engage.  My overzealous son, with good intent, tried to assist me while I was at work and remove the bad starter.  However, he was not successful and decided to wait for me.  When I got home we installed the new starter but then encountered a new problem,  It would not even turn over.  I returned the starter to NAPA and had them bench check the new unit and all checked good.  I reinstalled the old starter and it was now also dead (new problem).  My son then confessed that he forgot to disconnect the battery when he attempted to remove the starter and there was some arching.  So, I tried to look for electrical faults:  Fuseable Links, all leads and 15a fuses all check good but still no crank.  I verified (multi meter)that the start solenoid is not being commanded to pull the solenoid.  I visually checked the inhibit/neutral switch but was unable to conduct a functional check.

So, what started out as a routine starter change has me scratching my head looking for assistance.  Any advise or direction would be much appreciated!!

ANSWER: Ok,Most likely we have a blown fuse or fuse link somewhere ,there are two places to check one is in the underhood fuse panel and the other under dash (drivers side).Its possible but unlikely that the ignition relay has been shorted out.It is way up under the drivers side dashboard.Also don't rule out a faulty ignition switch you can easily test it with your meter.Its possible that it was the problem the whole time and now has completely failed.

I hope that helps

Justin
All Wheel Drive Auto

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The four fuseable links all checked good with a multi-meter and no visual evidence of burning.  I had previously checked all the 15a & 20a fuses under the dash with a multi-meter, all checked good.  I have not located the ignition switch wiring.  Where can I tap in and check the ignition switch?

Also note, I do have all lights, radio, acc power, horn....etc.

Answer
If you remove the lower dash panel you will see the ignition switch harness and pigtail the wire in question if memory serves should be black with a yellow stripe.But what you are looking for is power to the ignition switch and then power out of the switch when the key is turned to the start posistion.The electrical portion of the switch is inexpensive and should be readily available at most parts houses.

Justin
All Wheel Drive Auto