90, just clicks when trying to start!

[Firespirit]

Ok... I've had this car for about 2 years now. I bought it to fix it up, but got pregnant last year so that car has been sitting for almost 2 winters.

When I went to start the car up a month ago, the car would just click. The battery in that car was old, so I got a brand new battery (DIE HARD Gold.. What I use in my '97) and I replaced the cables since they looked pretty crappy. I was all set to start the car up.. When I turn the key - all it does is click and the EATC and radio turn on but then shut off and turn on again...

Does this sound like an alternator or starter problem, or should I chalk up my electrical system as destroyed (possibly by mice and other critters)? I didn't really wanna throw too much money at it since I have a buyer for it who's ready to take it as soon as he can drive it... (I drove it from IL to IN when I bought it so it has run in the past)

This SHO is going to drive me nuts. I think this SHO is just too far gone to repair in my driveway...

 

[armerdan]

Hmm. I'd pull the starter and have it checked out first, most parts stores will do that for free. Then maybe break out the meter and try to see if there might be a short. Also might check for voltage on the load side of the solenoid when you turn the key

 

[Firespirit]

Thanks for the help! Once the ice storm goes away then I'll see if the starter is the problem. Hopefully it is... I really don't want to track an electrical problem

 

[Off Road SHO]

Tracking down a starting issue is relatively easy on the early models. Your battery cables, where they attach to the solenoid on the fender well and to the starter bolt might just be loose. There are two "positive battery cables on the 90. One from battery to solenoid and another from solenoid to the starter. There is one "negative" battery cable from the battery to the bolt/stud that holds the starter to the tranny. Make sure all 6 of those connections are clean.

Disconnect the negative cable before working on anything "hot". Good luck.

Tom