We have a 1996 Chevy Suburban C1500. The start of our problems was having to get a jump about once a week because the battery would drain after so many days - so I got a new battery but wouldn't start with a jump, so cables were cleaned up (w/ sand paper) and a battery from our old car put in and finally started. Put new battery on charger inside and got it charged up but just didn't take the time to switch.....about a week later 'burb wasn't starting. Installed a new alternator - tried starting with a jump (with new battery) it tried to turn over a couple of times but wouldn't start. Replaced starter relay and tried again....nothing. Won't even try to start now. I'm guessing the next step is replacing the starter itself?? There are no clicking sounds or anything. There's no sound at all. All the dash lights and clock, etc...come on. The headlights dim a lot when trying to start.

We've just been going off of Google and thoughts from a couple of different people.

 

Make sure your battery's got a full charge. When it's all juiced up and not running, it should be showing around 12.6 volts. Since you've been having trouble with the battery draining, it's a good idea to give it a double-check with a voltmeter.

 

1. While engine is running like 2500 rpm, measure the voltage across the battery terminals - should read about 13.5 to 14.5 volts if the charging system is operating. Do this while transmission is in Park so you won't have to run alongside the vehicle to test, that would be dangerous !!!

2. If that test shows charging system is working, then look up parasitic drain on Google and see if you have that.

3. Do not consider purchasing a starter until testing is performed first.