Sounds like a short or inadvertent major load happens when key turned
to 50 position (crank starter). If starter has failed, in that failure
mode, it might put an enormous load on the electrical system, but not
turn. Assuming the battery connections are clean, disconnect
battery(s) ground strap(s) and physically check for any obvious issues
with wires at starter, wire from battery to starter.

@ the list:

If wires to starter were disconnected and safely put out of harms way,
then turned key to crank position and check if headlights still dim,
would this provide any amount of diagnostics? eg. starter at fault?

Neil.

On 5/3/14, David Bjorkman <ddbjorkman@verizon.net> wrote:

> When I turn the key with the headlights on, the headlights go out, not
> dim, but go out.  Turn signal and parking lights do not dim when key is
> turned.  Tried to jump start it.  Unsuccessful.  Anybody with any ideas let
> me know.

--
Neil n

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