No start only click, click, click

[brwn234]

The last couple times out last year I had some problems with starting. Every once and awhile I'd turn the key and nothing would happen. I figured either my starter or solenoid were going out. No big deal just replace it. After doing some research I found out it could also be another solenoid on top of the engine that some people are calling a slave solenoid. Whats the difference between this solenoid and the on mounted on the starter? What does each one do? Should I just replace the starter anyway for peace of mind?

[sweet 16 1966]

Possibly but first check the connections to and from.

[Planetwarmer]

I had the same problem. I am so happy that I can help someone else out with this!!

I changed the wires, the ignition, took the starter off and had it tested, etc. Finally, I changed the solenoid that you were asking about on the top of the motor (the slave solenoid). It worked immediately!!!! I haven't had any more trouble with the starting since.

Its cheap, change it.

[bigdawgchallenger]

Most of the time that second solenoid is the problem.

[DonZi 26]

i'd have to agree that solenoid may be the problem....if you have a main switch a'd also check that, just to be sure aswell.....

[dsparis]

Jump around the solenoid thats suspect and see if it cranks.

[MOP]

You guys have it covered 90% of the time it is the slave!

[Planetwarmer]

i tested the solenoid by jumping it. If I remember, I believe I hooked jumper cables to the ignition switch, and used them as a jump wire.

[MOP]

You jump the two posts on the slave itself eliminating the key circuit.

[joseph m. hahnl]

Always start at the battery first. Check that the battery clamps have a good connection on the wires and the battery terminal. Usually the ground is the culprit. once you are sure that aspect is good, you can start throwing parts into it.