Is there a starter relay or solenoid? ('91 DX Wagon AT)

My gf's wagon won't start sometimes. It's either the key tumbler or is there some kind of solenoid that can go bad?

What happens is you turn the key to "on" and it's normal... the puter does it thing, the fuel pump turns on (main relay ok), but when you turn it to "start" nothing happens, sounds like maybe one click.

The tumbler and key are worn out pretty good. You can take the key out of the ignition at any position, including when the engine is running..

This problem is intermittent. Sometimes the car works normally, other times it wont work at all. I try cycling the shifter, pumping the brakes, in the hopes of some interlock device is preventing it from starting, but that doesn't work.

Input appreciated, thanks.

Comments

  • HaydzHaydz Moderator
    Sounds like the solenoid in the starter motor might be siezing.

    Give it a tap on the end with a hammer as someone turns the key. AT your own risk lol.
  • bam-bambam-bam Council Member
    Or possibly just a bad connection at one of your battery terminals. First clean them at the battery and check to make sure the connections are clean and tight where the ground cable goes to the frame/then to the transmission. Check the positive battery cable where it terminates at the starter.
    To check the starting system basics: Carry a test light with you so that when it does its thing you'll be ready. Have her turn the key to 'start' and see if you have voltage to the solenoid terminal on the starter. If it's getting a signal and not working, then you need a starter. If it's not getting that signal, then the problem is upstream. I'm not aware of another remote starter relay, so the problem could be the ignition switch- it's not common though.
  • bam-bam wrote:
    ...it's not common though.
    You can take the key out of the ignition at any position
    that's right...
  • Thanks for the ideas guys. I think I ruled out the safety interlock on the shifter that won't let you start the car in gear. I can notice a finite change when cycling the transmission through the gears and trying to start it at the same time.

    I will try what you guys have written, but I really think it's the key switch. Sometimes she can't turn it at all, other times it's difficult. It's normal to be able to pull the key out at any position? Even with the car running? I don't think so.
  • bam-bambam-bam Council Member
    What you're describing is a worn ignition LOCK, not the switch itself.
  • So a wornout lock might not affect the switch?
  • eh, well I decided to jump the car with my wagon and it fires right up. So I guess its a shitty battery. It is a Wal-Mart battery. I got a better battery installed today. Hopefully that fixes this little glitch.
  • HaydzHaydz Moderator
    That could also indicate a failing alternator. What is the voltage across battery when switched to ACC? What is voltage across battery when car it running? What is voltage across alternator when car is running?
  • that's right...
    it's hazardous, tampered with,
    a lot of things could happen,
    including a locked steeringwheel while driving...

    just make sure you disconnect the battery,
    if you going fix/repair/look at that lock
    or that part of the starter circuit...
    646.jpgcontactslot.jpg




    test like this if possible..
    Voltage Drop Testing a Starter Circuit

    AutoBookP3-578x417.jpg

    GL
Sign In or Register to comment.