so this is my second post. Last one I got a lot of help and it was much appreciated. I recently bought bought a 1987 savage. I got it really cheap understanding that it needed a clutch assembly, a rear break cover and a new pet thingy. So I got them all installed and tried to start it and got nothing. It has a brand new battery. I'm thinking I got myself into more than I can handle. Honestly I don't even know where to start. So any advice or pointers would be greatly appreciated. When I  hit the start button I get absolutely nothing..

Honestly I don't remember lifting the side stand. I hope that's the problem, that would make my day. I'll try agin when I get home and I'll post the verdict.

I knew it couldn't be that easy. Still get absolutely nothing when I hit the start button

I would check the starter 1st
jump the battery to the starter to see if it turns, make sure it's in neutral unless you need a new front end.

if it works, check the relay, pull off the seat, pull back the rubber cover and jump 2 terms... I forget which ones, there's gonna be a big 1 from the battery and 1 to the starter, then 2 small ones.  You can jump the 2 big ones same doing the previous test. 1 from the bat to 1 of the small ones should activate the relay.

Yes the lights work but when I hit The starter button that's whenn I get nothing not even a click.

That's what I'll do, I'll get a volt meter and go from there and let you guys know what I find.

Josh Talley wrote on 10/28/14 at 09:19:12:

yep, check that 1st.
could be the diode bridge has gone bad.

Not to throw a wrench in (follow what the guys are saying first)...but an idea maybe... what about the electrical connection under the tank everyone says comes loose now and then? maybe?