Won't start - Need some pointers

[JoeMama]

I just put the car back together, engine and transmission were out of the car. (Car is a 99 GT)

Everything is back in and the car won't start. I checked the starter, it was bad (When they tested it, it turned and smoked all over the damn place), so I replaced it, but it didn't even turn over when it was in the car. Anyway, installed the new starter and still the same issue. The battery is new too and giving about 11.9 volts at rest. It won't turn over and I don't think I even hear the gas pump.

About the only thing I can think of is that when I connected the gear changer to the transmission, I had to push and pull on it to get the bracket installed. Is there a possibility that the car just doesn't think it's in Park? and therefore isn't starting. how can I check that?

Thanks!

 

[Rico]

Remove the bracket and manually put it in park. The indicator on the dash is a good way to tell if the switch is actually in park 'cause the signal is sent from the within the transmission. It's called the range switch.

You may have crossed some wires on the starter. Check that first.

 

[BillBoost37]

Grounds at transmission

Power at starter

View of both. (You have exhaust in the way..otherwise you could see it this easily too)