The good Baron gives good advice. Try that large flat tip screwdriver test. Once the tip touches both the large stud terminal where the battery cable is connected and the small spade lug terminal where the trigger wire connects, the starter should kick right over.

Older models, and maybe yours, have an additional spade lug terminal. Use of it ended in 1982, I think. If the trigger wire is connected to that terminal, you get what you have - not even a click.

And, the flat tip test won't work because the tip can't reach that other terminal.

Another test: Holding the key in starting position, move the gear shift through P-R-N-D and watch the warining idiot lights for a drop in brightness. If the starter draws any current, the brightness will drop a little.

It is also possible that the Neutral/Park switch has failed.

Good Luck,

Bob

:>)