Nissan Repair: 1997 Nissan Pick up, probe type, key switch

Question
QUESTION: My pick up will not start.  Battery seems fine, key switch seems fine.  Could it be the clutch switch and if so how to fix?

ANSWER: Hi Doug -

I will need more info to narrow this down for you -

Does the engine turn when you try to start it? Or is there a clicking sound, or no sound at all when you turn the key?

Did this happen all of a sudden, or was the engine running rough, dying, etc?

The more information you can give me, the better.

Let me know -
aloha
calvin

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

QUESTION: The engine will not turn at all.  No clicking.  It happened all of a sudden.  The engine has been running fine.

Thanks
Doug

Answer
Hi Doug -

Assuming that all the battery and wires connections are tight, check the power to the starter. There are 2 wires that go to the starter. The large one comes straight from the battery and should have power all the time. The smaller one will energize when you turn the key to start the vehicle. This is the one you want to check. Get a probe type light tester (12V), and ground the side with the clip. Hold the tip of the probe to the terminal where the smaller wire connects to the starter. Have someone try to start the car. If there is power when this happens, then the starter is defective. If there is no power, then I would check the ignition switch.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin