My '82 Chevy G20 5.0L van won't start. I put in a new battery (probably not necessary) and the lights work, but nothing happens when I turn the key (the accessories won't work either: for example, the fan does not com on when I turn the key.

Any ideas? I know that electrical problems can take a while to pinpoint, which is why I'd like to keep it away from my mechanic.

(I was guessing that the ignition switch itself is shot).

Thanks

Before getting into the ignition switch, I would check the condition of the battery cables and fusable link(s).

Check 4 b+ at the starter solinoid when someone turn the key if b+ is present try rapping on the starter while an assistant attempts to start. If it starts it's a bad starter