no start - solenoid clicks

[Ceeker]

So I got me a new starter because it needed it. After installing I would start the car -runs. Shut it down and try to restart and get nothing. I wait a while and it can start again. the other day I put the battery on charge and I didn't get anything. I moved the auto selector switch back and forth and the car cranked and started. I shut it down and again no start. When I turn the key over in position two I get a click sound from the solenoid.

I thought maybe the neutral safety switch had gone - replaced that.

I checked the main relay in the engine bay and swapped that and I still get the same symptoms.

was told there is a starter relay under the leg panel?

any help would be appreciated. thanks.

[peterpeter]

I have no info to help you, but mine does something similar where it just doesn't start at all, it rarely does so, and when it happens I just have to wait a while and try again.

[Liquidity]

If the starter solenoid is clicking, there's nothing wrong with your neutral safety switch. Where did you get the starter? Advance/Auto Zone/Pep Boys/etc? They've all been selling garbage rebuilds lately - starters and alternators - that need to be taken back multiple times.

[dewme5]

I've had issues with other makes of vehicles, where the ignition switch is going out. Twist the key all the way until it stops, and the engine would crank, but not fire. Twist the key just enough to get it to crank, and it would start right away. Check to see if key position has anything to do with it.

Other then that, check all power and ground connections. Measure them with a meter.

[jlevie]

The solenoid clicking could mean that the primary power connection to the starter is not making a good connection or that the engine to chassis ground strap is not making a good connection. Or it could mean that this starter is simply bad. Which is quite likely if it was a generic reman. I've had so many problems with the generic remans (starters or alternators) that I now only use a factory reman. More expensive, but they work every time.

[Gregs///M]

Ya, focus on a easy fix first. The engine ground cable that runs from your oil pan to the frame rail on the drivers side is prone to oxidation and corrosion. This cable is responsible for grounding all engine electronics including the starter.

If the cable is in bad shape replace it. Also clean all the contact points. That might help your intermittent starting.

However, I have also seen intermittent starting from failing starter solenoids. Stick with Bosch brand starters only.

[Ceeker]

thanks for the help fellas...

I'm gonna pull the starter as this is my suspicion all along.
I have replaced the ground strap, neutral safety switch (auto) rebuilt starter and new battery. I suspect it is the starter as it was a bocshe starter to begin with but I don't know what parts the rebuilder put in. it's already paid for so the only thing I'll have to eat is labor.

upon closer inspection and bench test the solenoid base was cracked causing a short. starter back in and everything is good!

thanks everyone!!! :-)

[Ceeker]

Well as the colder weather sets in my prob has returned. In the start position it does nothing. Then i try it again and starts like there is no problems. Its become pretty consistent now.
wonder if its an ignition switch probem?