2005 Holiday Rambler Ambassador Starting Problems

[ShotgunWriter]

Hello, my MH is having trouble starting. On our recent cross-country trip, it began having problems, but if we jiggled the key just right, we could get it to start. We thought there was a problem with the ignition switch. After returning home (thank goodness!), our MH will not start at all. We replaced the ignition switch, but that was not it. My husband has been working on finding the problem, but we thought we'd come here for help. Here are the symptoms and what he has done so far:

-All lights light up on the dash, including the Allison transmission keypad indicating Neutral
-One click noise as the key is turned, somewhere near/in the starter
-All fuses and relays by driver's side wheel panel appear to be working
-Batteries have been checked and load tested, they are good
-Solenoid arches when trying to start with screwdriver, and one click can be heard
-All connectors have been checked and are secure
-Ground cables on frame have been cleaned
-Battery connectors pos/neg on batteries have been cleaned
-He has been attempting to remove the starter to bench test it, but after removing 2 bolts, it is still stuck in place and can't be removed.

Thanks in advance for any help you can give.

[MEXICOWANDERER]

What engine? That will clue as to starter make and model :)?

[ShotgunWriter]

Johno02 wrote:
As far as getting it off, good luck there, someone else will have to help with that.

He is wondering exactly what you mean by this. Does it require two people, or is it a "mechanic only" type of thing? He has replaced numerous starters in cars before and doesn't think this should be this difficult.

Thanks again for your help

[Krusty]

Sounds like a starter issue or possibly a bad connection. If he is having troubles removing the starter, he may be able to test it on the engine by connecting a set of jumper cables using a known good battery.

[cajun70586]

What he said

[Johno02]

Problem is what was called a "flat Spot" on the starter, or the starter solenoid. Have had the same problem on many cars over the years, Cure is to replace or rebuild the starter motor. Usually replace the solenoid at the same time, just to complete the job right. As far as getting it off, good luck there, someone else will have to help with that.