308 Starting problem

Check the battery terminals for good tight connections. Sometimes even though some items work the connection is not good enough to pull power for the starter motor. I know you said the battery is new, but before things get torn abart double check that it's fully charged as well.

I've learned the hard way to always start with the simple stuff first.

Ignition switch would be another good lead.

Good luck

 

The fact you have lights means power is getting to the fuse panel. If turning the key does not change the lights intensity, if no gauges or key operated accessories come on, more than likely your key switch is the place to start. The red wire on the back of the switch is battery +, and is hot all the time. As Steve suggested, the AMP terminal is where power is routed from the battery in the fuse box. A test light at the red wire on the ignition switch will show you if you have power at the switch. If you have power there, turn the key to the on position. Check for power at the blue and black wires. If they are dead, the problem is in the switch. You can also check for power at the white wire with the switch in the start position. Again, if the red wire shows power available, and you get nothing at the white wire, the switch is suspect.

If you DONT have power at the red wire, you will have to check backwards by inspecting the AMP terminal. I would caution you to disconnect the battery by removing the ground lead before doing any further checks. If you short something out you can cause an electrical fire and destroy your car, or at least destroy most of the cars wiring harness. Use a VOM or powered test light and jumper leads.

As an FYI, the main battery positive lead goes directly to the starter motor. The main power lead to the fuse panel AMP terminal comes from the starter terminal. If you have lights, its obvious power is coming to the fuse panel via the AMP terminal, so its doubtful you would need to check the starter or battery terminals, just make sure you have full voltage at the battery, and check for full voltage at the AMP terminal. The black and blue leads from the ignition key switch go into the fuse panel to power accessories. If you have power to those leads, look further downstream at the fuse panel at those connections.

As a quick test to see if its the key switch before ripping into the car, using a heavy gauge jumper wire with alligator clips, attach one clip to the white starter lead terminal on the key switch. Make sure the car is in neutral. Make sure the car is in NEUTRAL! Momentarily touch the other jumper wire clip to the red wire lead terminal on the key switch. If the engine turns over or clicks, you need a new key switch. Basically your jumping the red and white wires together and bypassing the switch.

 

there ya go