Cadillac Repair: Engine not starting, weather today, purple wire

Question
Hi Tom,

This is not actually a cadillac question.  It is pretty general, however, the other experts have all maxed out.

I have a chevy s-10 pick up.  1989.  New engine.  Over the last two days, it has developed a habit of not starting.  I turn the key and get a click.  It sounds like maybe the solenoid is trying but maybe the little gear is stuck.  If I keep trying, it finally just cranks right up. Doesn't feel like the battery is tired.  So not sure where to start diagnosing.  Additionally, the ignition switch doesn't work exactly like it should.  It won't go into the accessory mode.  So, I am wondering if that could be the problem.  I tried the old hit the starter with a hammer trick but can't get to it to give it a good whack.  Not sure how old the battery is, but I think it is maybe a couple of years old.  The weather today was in the upper 70's so not a cold issue.

Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks

Robert

Answer
Try jumpering the starter battery cable connection to the single "S" terminal single , I believe purple wire at the starter and see if the starter engages everytime. if it does you most likely have a fault in the neutral starter safety switch.

Will it start correctly if you use neutral ?