This one is throwing me. I just replaced the alternator and now when i try to start the car it doesnt take. The engine DOES spin, i can see the belt moving when the key is turned, but it doesnt actually fire. all i hear is the starter spinning. I am really stumped here, could this be a fuse, a relay, or something else entirely? any insight is greatly appreciated.

 

Double check any wires you disconnected.

I did an engine swap (455 in place of a 350) in a Cutlass I used to have. Got it all done, turned the key and....nothing. It was 8 PM and too late to mess with it any more. Next morning, I started checking the wiring and realized I left one wire off the soleniod. Hooked it up and the engine fired immediately. One stupid little wire was all it took.

 

check the wires on the alternator.. and that the big plug is in

 

OK...turned out to be the fact that i disconected battery for a prolonged period of time, my MAF lost its table. after checking all connections, then for fuel and spark i determined that air must be the issue. so i stasrted it with the throttle floored, and after a bit of hesitation it started. just staying on the gas so it wouldnt stall for a little bit, the engine figured out where it was and was fine...just thought i would let everyone know. no big deal. thanks for all of your help though.

 

disconnecting the battery for a long time has nothing to do with the problem.. I have left my car w/o battery for more than 48 hrs and always starts like a champ. You were lucky.. but there is something else cooking on the stove