[time to replace starter?]

[losinit@usa.net (Cathy Boyko)]

Robbie Cotner <robw_z@yahoo.com> wrote:
> --------------------------------------------- =

>	Attachment:=A0 =

>	MIME Type:=A0multipart/alternative =

> --------------------------------------------- =


As of late my starter will just do nothing when I turn the key(~1 out of =
every
5 starts).  Repeated whacking of the solenoid with my long reach ice scra=
per
will make it start sometimes, and sometimes if that doesn't work I shift
around the gears and push in the clutch, and it eventually starts(could j=
ust
be coincidence, I don't know.... it's weird, sometimes I'll be trying
repeatedly with the clutch in and it will do nothing, then I release the
clutch and it starts, and sometimes vis-versa).  Anyway, is there any rem=
edy
to this problem other than starter replacement?  I suppose I could just
replace the solenoid?  For anyone who has had this problem, how much long=
er
did your starter last?  thanks-

Rob


Though the "whack whack" cure often points to the solenoid, I'd look at t=
he
main wires as well. I just fixed the 91 Jetta for this very thing yesterd=
ay,
the "big red wire" (technical term) to the alternator looked good, but on=

inspection, had corroded inside the insulation to the point where only th=
e
insulation held it together, and wiggling/smacking would sometimes connec=
t it.
One new wire, and she fires right up. Get some sandpaper and dielectric g=
rease
ready too. If you replace the starter, you'll need to clean the contacts
anyway, so may as well give it a try.
Another case for Brother Tosha and the church of the free electron perhap=
s?
Cathy, faithful sister, spreading the good word