1968 Solenoid question

[Jester]

A couple of times now my car has just been dead when I turn the key. By tapping the solenoid it engages and starts, so my guess is the solenoid is not what it should be. I am not sure but I think the solenoid is fairly new, that the P.O put it in 4 years ago. A few questions for you mechanics out there. Is it worth trying to fix the solenoid myself, I mean is it usually simple and obvious problems, or should I just by a new one? And if I by a new one what is the expected lifetime? Are they generally failing after a few years? Thanks/Jesper

 

[390cs68rcode]

usually caused by not being grounded properly.

 

[stangfan]

I had a NPD concours level solenoid fail on the second start. They sent me a replacement and it has been fine for over two years now. You just never know these days with most of the repros being made in China.

 

[Ruppstang]

+1 on the above comments. I would check for ground and if its I would buy a auto parts store solenoid if it is not a concours car. There is really no way to service solenoids.
Marty

 

[franklinair]

If you're not concerned with concourse, I can get 12V aircraft starter solenoids that are of higher quality. About $12.

Neil

 

[Jester]

I changed the solenoid. When I turn the key,there is now a clear "clack" which I guess would be the starter engaging so I assume the solenoid now is ok. But then nothing. The starter doesn't crank the engine. When I release the key there is another "click" which I again guess is the starter retraction. So, is it the starter and I need to change it or could it be something else?

 

[CougarCJ]

Check your battery, and cables. Engine ground strap at back of engine.
Old battery cables build up resistance over time and can get corroded between the wire strands.

 

[Jester]

Thanks! It turned out to be a wire connection on the starter that wasnt tight enough. I still don't understand why the connection allowed the starter to engage but not to crank the engine. If anyone cares to educate me, feel free.
/Jesper

 

[franklinair]

I believe the 'clack' you heard was the solenoid contacts engaging & disengaging. Not the Starter. A Starter is really nothing more than an electric motor.

Neil

 

[Jester]

OK, thanks, that would explain it.