TrekerJack wrote:
Is there a way to test the solenoid or should I just swap it and see if that fixes the problem?
Sorry, missed this Q...
1. Use a meter from ground to hot side of solenoid. Should be same (within a 0.1v) as across your battery terminals.
2. Use meter from starter side of solenoid to ground. Activate keyswitch (stand clear of all moving parts :E ) Should be same as hot side.
3a. If #2 shows same voltage, solenoid is fine, look to starter and starter ground.
3b. If #2 shows NO voltage, use a piece of spare wire from battery + to COM (thin + wire) on solenoid. Check starter side of solenoid again for voltage. This checks the keyswitch, wire from it, etc.
4. If #3b fails, final test is to ground the solenoid base (or small - post if equipped) and repeat 3b.
5. If no success, replace solenoid. Any test that fails and activates starter or shows proper voltage with the extra wire, etc has isolated the failed circuit- troubleshoot that component.
A solenoid takes + from COM (keyswitch) across internal switch to ground via its mounting base (some have separate, small - GND terminal). The internal switch completes the circuit from the hot side (battery side) heavy wire to the starter side (output) heavy wire to the starter, which usually grounds itself through its mounting plate/bolts to run the starter motor and turn over your engine.
Hope this helps!
