car not starting

[chefabg123321]

car was running great yesterday, 72 vert 351 4v CJ . all of sudden wont start....lights and radio VERY strong even when I attempt to turn it over. Trouble is Im getting a very LOUD click from the solenoid unit...nothing from starter. Any ideas besides just swapping solenoid??

A little new info....tach was just gotten back from "Tach Man" as it was blown by new electronic distributor.

Thanks, Adam

 

[Don C]

With the key turned to start check the voltage on the load side of the solenoid (the side that goes to the starter). If you have battery voltage it's probably the starter, no voltage indicates the solenoid as the problem.

 

[chefabg123321]

With the key turned to start check the voltage on the load side of the solenoid (the side that goes to the starter). If you have battery voltage it's probably the starter, no voltage indicates the solenoid as the problem.

dropped the starter out of car with a THUD on the ground!! That SOB is heavy! Tested at Auto store up the road and it tested just fine..it was working. Popped it back in and started right up!! Guess the drop on the ground helped...BUT should I replace it?? Thanks, Asam

 

[Jeff73Mach1]

Nope, bad connection that removing and reinstalling cleaned up. I wouldn't replace unless it starts acting up again.

For future reference when removing a starter, tie a strap or cord around it and thread it up into the engine compartment and secure it to support the starter when you unbolt it, then you won't have to support the weight. When reinstalling you can do the same thing to hold the weight of the starter while you line it up.

 

[jb73Mach]

+1 on bad connection.

 

[will e]

Next time you have this issue try starting it with the lights on. If the lights don't dim very much or at all it's a connection.