mack1

Hi bparmer and welcome to TSF,

Try turning the key from off to on(not start). Wait 3 seconds and repeat. Each time the switch goes to start, the fuel pump comes on for 2 seconds. The on/off sequence will give it a chance to build up more pressure if you have a weak pump. If you had a pressure guage on the fuel line, you could see this happen. The spray starter fluid that
kenny111111 mentioned would also tell you if you had a fuel problem.

The starter pulls more current than any other power device on the car. When the starter engages, it can pull the battery voltage down to 10 volts or lower. Under 10 volts will start affecting the ignition system. In that case, the engine will spin, but no spark. A good test for spark is to use a spare spark plug (or take one out of the engine) and place it on the block with the ingition wire connected to it. Turn the engine over and look for a rich blue spark agross the gap. A weak red or no spark means the problem is ignition. When it won't start, try jumpering it to a known good battery. If that solves the problem, have the battery tested. Also, make sure the battery terminals are clean and the connections at the starter are good.

Hope this helps.

Best regards,
Mack1