97 240 no start issue

[Peeple]

I've been trying to diagnose a starting issue for a couple days now and have worked through the easier possibilities I've found on this forum. Now I need help going forward.

The problem is intermittent, about every fourth or so turn of the key the car starts fine with no extra cranking. But when it doesn't start there is nothing, no click of the solenoid, no weak winding noise, no cranking, zip.

Starter = Fine
Clutch Switch = Fine
Fuse = Fine
Battery = Fine

Behavior outside of my knowledge: When I put the key in the ignition and click it forward one position, with all accessories off, I'm hearing whirring, sounds like it is from the starter.

Possible other contributing factors: I have a slow oil leak on my front main or timing cover, it has whipped oil on to my alternator. Would this be a contributing factor?

Grounding is a possibility. Where are the grounding points in a 97 240sx? It has been the better part of 7 or 10 years since I've had to deal with a grounding or electrical issue. Please be specific in your instructions. Thanks for any help.

[Biggins240sx]

Have you taken a look at your ignition switch? not the key switch but the electrical component attached to the key switch.

[sonny1335]

check the battery terminals... i didn't this it was my battery but id have the same thing except the only thing i could hear is my passive control ecu clicking.

[dgms240]

+1 for ignition switch. had a similar prob on my s14, finally just wired in a push button starter.

[Josh@NSP]

I recently had to change the harness that runs from the ignition switch to the chassis harness because the plastic inside had worn out and the key would just spin inside of it. It was intermittent though, and about the most random thing I could have found. Try taking that piece off and inspecting the plastic to see if it looks worn out. Also, while it's out, just take a flathead and try to crank it. Could be wiring as well, I've a seen a few lowered cars that rub through the wiring in the fenders and cause intermittent starting problems.