Starting Problems

[PHILIP BUXTON]

I have read threads on starting difficulties and suspect my solenoid as suddenly nothing happens at all when I turn key, not even a click. I was told to tap starter motor with hammer to release it and this has worked in past (I had same prob approx one year ago and having tapped starter problem went away completely until now; ) I don't understand how everything can work one minute and not the next! I have charged battery which seemed ok.
Apart from advice given in articles in forum (check earth leads etc) is it at all possible to try and clean solenoid in situ or remove solenoid for cleaning without removing starter motor,which I am convinced is beyond me .My car is a left hand drive.
I think in Haynes manual it says if you turn starter with headlights on and these do not dim then current is not getting to starter motor so problem is with solenoid. I do not discern any dimming of lights when starter turned

 

[Steve Hennessey]

Sounds as if you need a new starter motor. But before you go out and buy one, remove the small wire from the soleniod - it's just a push on connection. Get a length of wire with a female spade terminal and attach it to the terminal on the solenoid. Flick the other end of the wire on the positive (+) terminal of the battery and see if the starter works. If so, you have problems with the wiring from the ignition switch to the solenoid. If not then fit a new starter.