How to Hook Up a Push Button Start on a Chevy 350

Hooking up a push button start to a Chevy 350 engine implies an on and off ignition switch has already been installed or the car has a defective ignition switch on the steering column. The push button start switch activates the starter, not the ignition. This device is used in race cars primarily, with a minimal wiring harness. The ignition switch should be turned on first, before pressing the starter button, to activate the starter.

Things You'll Need

  • Drill
  • Drill bit
  • Roll of 14-gauge wire
  • Box of assorted wire terminal connectors
  • Wire crimper
  • Flat head screwdriver
  • Pliers
  • 30-amp temporary "On" switch
  • Locate a convenient position for the starter button switch. Generally, the starter switch is positioned on either an overhead panel or on the right-hand side of the sheet metal panel with the twin MSD ignitions. Drill a hole with a power drill and insert the switch. Install the front locking ring onto the switch and tighten.

  • Run a piece of wire from either the buss bar or the fuse box to the switch. The buss bar, primarily used on a race car, is a block of fuses with a battery, plus a wire on one side and a negative ground on the other. If the hot wire to the switch will be routed from the inside fuse block, use a 30-amp fused circuit. Attach a spade terminal to the end of the wire and plug it into the corresponding spade terminal next to the 30-amp fuse.

  • Connect the appropriate wire connector on the fuse side of the wire then connect this to the selected fuse terminal. A spade terminal will usually be available in the box, which will supply the necessary amperage. If the circuit is hard to find, use a voltmeter to locate the appropriate terminal. Crimp the terminal connector with a crimper tool.

  • Install a spade terminal onto the switch side of the wire and crimp it securely. Install this spade terminal to either terminal on the switch.

  • Run another length of wire from the switch to the small terminal on the starter solenoid. Install a spade terminal on the switch side of the wire and plug this terminal into the starter switch. Connect an appropriate terminal (a spade or stud) to the solenoid terminal.