The 2 large connectors get power to the starter motor. You need to power the solenoid to move the gear out to drive the flywheel. Running the starter motor without the engine loa on it can damage it from over speed. A weak or low voltage battery can prevent the starter solenoid from pushing out the gear and closing the contacts for the motor. Since this happened at the same time as the drained battery start at the battery. +12 volts at rest and 10 while cranking. If the voltage drops when the key is turned the battery is probably no good.

Dennis,
From my phone.
________________________________
From: B Feddish<mailto:uprightbassghost@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sent: ‎10/‎23/‎2015 10:46 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM<mailto:vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Subject: Trouble starting

I am scheduled to leave later today on a camping trip.   The van battery was dead because I left the interior light on the other day.  I charged the battery and turned the key but nothing happened. I tried to jump start but nothing.  The starter makes no sound whatsoever.  If I crawl underneath and connect to 2 large connections together the starter spins but does not engage.

What are the next trouble shooting techniques to determine what is wrong?

1983.5 WC

Thanks,
Bryan