In a message dated 98-05-25 16:52:06 EDT, maineac@gateway.net writes:
> And here's what happens... when I turn the key to the start position, the
> solenoid responds with a satisfying "click", but there is no motion from
> the motor. If I use a screwdriver to "bridge" the big lugs on the solenoid
> (where the battery cable ataches and where the connection to the motor is),
> the motor will turn like it should. If I disconnect the motor from the
> bottom solenoid lug, (and use the key) I get a full 12 v at the lug, but if
> I reconnect the motor I get ~ 1 v. The battery is still fully charged as
> it shows ~ 13 v., and when I trying to start the car (motor connected to
> solenoid) the battery shows ~ 12 v.
Tom,
Three things come to mind -- You either have a bad solenoid, the starter motor
drive mechanism is bad, or the starter is incorrectly installed.
The solenoid performs two functions. Firstly, it moves the starter drive gear
out of the housing and into contact with the ring gear on the flywheel. Only
after the gear has engaged will the solenoid perform its second function, and
that is operating a set of switch contacts inside the solenoid to apply power
from the battery to the starter motor. If the starter is defective, or if it
is installed incorrectly, the solenoid may "click," yet not move far enough
forward to close the switch contacts. If the drive gear jams before the
switch closes, you will get the click, yet no power to the motor.
I would suggest pulling the starter off and bench testing it. If it works on
the bench, then the installation is wrong -- if not, then the starter is
messed up.
Dan Masters,
Alcoa, TN
'71 TR6---------3000mile/year driver, fully restored
'71 TR6---------undergoing full restoration and Ford 5.0 V8 insertion - see:
http://www.sky.net/~boballen/mg/Masters/
'74 MGBGT---3000mile/year driver, original condition - slated for a V8 soon
'68 MGBGT---organ donor for the '74
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