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[lyonsfin]

I just got a '75 spitfire.  The solenoid was bad so when I looked at we needed to start it by crossing the terminals.  I replaced the solenoid, but only get a click sound when I turn the key.  I suppose it is the starter, but it has only been a few days.  Is it possible to mess up the starter by jumping the solenoid?

josh

[herald948]

That should not harm the solenoid or starter if you're careful. I would next check and clean all major power cable (battery, solenoid, starter and ground) connections...and make sure the battery is ok. Odds are that will solve the problem.

[gungatim]

Make sure you are getting 12v to the starter, then Also check your main cable where it goes in to the starter body. I have seen many of these short out there due to poor insulation and/or loose rear plates.  You should be able to make the starter spin by attaching jumper cables to this terminal directly.

Hope this helps.
Tim.

[capn rick]

have the same gremlin in my 75. had it since I bought it in 96. replaced the ignition key cylinder, solenoid (twice) starter (once) and have installed a knife switch on top of the battery to stop the greedy bugger from eating up my amps.

Mine just sulks when I dont start it for a month-the tach needle bounces around and the dash lights come on buth nothing happens under the hood at all.  finally learned to "jiggle the big brown wire" running from the firewall to the starter solenoid.
if that fails to get its attention, it's a big flatblade screwdriver across the solenoid wires with the key 'on'.  either catches, or catches fire, I say.

some twit rewired much of the firewall with identical red #10 wiring, rendering the color wiring diagram I got off the internet somewhat superfluous. 

well if it was easy, they'd still be making 'em.

[moneypitspit]

I have a '74 Spit and had the same problem. Replaced the solenoid and still would not start. Connections were all fine and voltages all good.
I used a small wrench (5/16" I believe)to turn the starter a quarter turn and she started right up. Found I had a bad spot on the starter.
Fortunately it was when VickyBrit's winter catalog was out and I bought a new starter (saved $30).
Starts every time now.
Just installed the 21" radiator and she runs better here in Florida heat.

[moneypitspit]

I have a '74 Spit and had the same problem. Replaced the solenoid and still would not start. Connections were all fine and voltages all good.
I used a small wrench (5/16" I believe)to turn the starter a quarter turn and she started right up. Found I had a bad spot on the starter.
Fortunately it was when VickyBrit's winter catalog was out and I bought a new starter (saved $30).
Starts every time now.
Just installed the 21" radiator and she runs better here in Florida heat.
OOps! Forgot to sign it
Ron Wasmuth
Lakeland, FL