Starter Solenoid

[Frank C.]

Every now and then when I try to start my BJ8 the starter barely can turn over the engine. If I try a few times it usually turns over fine. The battery is new and fully charged and all my connections seem tight so I'm thinking (hoping) it is dirty contacts on the solenoid and not the starter. My question is, can I pull the solenoid off and clean/rework it or is a sealed unit that I should just replace?

As usual --- thanks in advance.

 

[piman]

Hello Frank,

the solenoid is not designed as a serviceable unit, but it is sometimes posible to dismantle it without causing damage. No real loss if the normal choice is to replace it.
I would, however, have a look at the starter motor brushes as this is a more likely source of the problem.

Alec

 

[Keoke]

Hi Frank, Piman is correct. However, you can separate the solenoid from the sta rter by simply using the manual button on the back when the car acts up again. if starter works good manually its probably the solenoid.--Fwiw---Keoke

 

[Frank C.]

Thanks guys. This will be my weekend project so I'll let you know what I find.