Starter not engaging

[tonypy1]

I've just tried turning the engine over after a 7 year rebuild including converting from auto to manual and the starter is spinning but not engaging with the ring gear. I've had a look through old posts and notice a previous episode where the auto spacers where left on the crank, fortunately I haven't done this. I did however, take the solenoid apart while the starter was out to clean up the internal contacts - could I have messed something up with the solenoid or is there something I need to adjust?

Any advice would be gratefully received.

[Staggard]

I've just tried turning the engine over after a 7 year rebuild including converting from auto to manual and the starter is spinning but not engaging with the ring gear. I've had a look through old posts and notice a previous episode where the auto spacers where left on the crank, fortunately I haven't done this. I did however, take the solenoid apart while the starter was out to clean up the internal contacts - could I have messed something up with the solenoid or is there something I need to adjust? Any advice would be gratefully received.

Hi Tony did you bench test the starter ?? In the long run it might be easier to whip it out and stick a set of jumper leads on it and make sure the solenoid throwing in (because that sounds like your problem) hope this helps. Cheers Graham

[tonypy1]

Thanks Graham,

I think the solenoid must be throwing in otherwise it wouldn't be bridging the contacts for the starter to spin - unless I have misunderstood something. I'm beginning to wonder if I didn't hook the solenoid over the actuating arm. I can't hear a click on starting so perhaps the solenoid is already pushed close to the contacts because it is all on the wrong side of the arm... I'm just hoping I can get the solenoid out easily without having to remove the whole thing - it was a pig to get the starter in before the gearbox and manifolds were fitted.

[Staggard]

Thanks Graham,

I think the solenoid must be throwing in otherwise it wouldn't be bridging the contacts for the starter to spin - unless I have misunderstood something. I'm beginning to wonder if I didn't hook the solenoid over the actuating arm. I can't hear a click on starting so perhaps the solenoid is already pushed close to the contacts because it is all on the wrong side of the arm... I'm just hoping I can get the solenoid out easily without having to remove the whole thing - it was a pig to get the starter in before the gearbox and manifolds were fitted.

Yep that sound's about right there a right pig to hook over I hook the centre over first then slide the body over after (so you didn't bench test it then?) Graham

[Bazstag]

I put a new solenoid on mine so easy enough to take off in situ

[tonypy1]

No, I didn't....... won't make that mistake again!

[tonypy1]

That's a relief to hear that the whole thing might not need to come out.