[DeTomaso] Another disappointment

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 9/5/08 17 45 1, chrisvkimball at msn.com writes:


> If I were to guess the problem might be the starter (which was replaced 
> less than 2000 miles ago), would that be my best starting place?
> 

If you guess the problem lies with the starter, then yes, the starter is the 
place to start. :>)

But I wouldn't necessarily make that assumption.   You said you just changed 
the solonoid (on the firewall), and so I would suspect a goof-up there first.  
 You never stated that when you turned the key, the solonoid actuated (it 
makes a distinct click or thunk).   So it's likely that either the solonoid has 
failed, or there is a problem upstream.

It's easy enough to test--first, turn the key and listen for the solonoid to 
actuate.   If it does, then you either have a connection problem or a starter 
problem.   If it doesn't then you either have a bad solonoid, bad connection 
from the ignition switch wire, or the problem lies upstream, i.e. bad 
connection in the harness where the ignition switch connects to the car wiring harness, 
or a bad ignition switch.

If the solonoid doesn't engage, then with the car in neutral, disconnect the 
wire from the solonoid that comes from the ignition switch.   Fabricate a 
jumper, and hold one end against the 12V terminal on the solonoid coming from the 
battery (so that it is getting constant 12V power), and touch the other end to 
the now-disconnected terminal on the solonoid.   The solonoid should close 
(it makes a pronounced thunk) and the starter should engage.

If the solonoid doesn't close, then the solonoid is the problem.   If it 
does, and the starter doesn't turn, then the starter (or the connection between 
the solonoid and the starter) is the problem.   

I'm willing to bet that you have a loose connection at the solonoid, or a bad 
solonoid.   So I'd concentrate there first--check all your connections, most 
especially the main battery cables to and from the solonoid.

Let us know what you find out?

Mike


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