95 ATX Does Not Crank Over, Just A click

[aaronsbiza]

My 95 ATX refused to start tonight. I turned the key and all I got was a click, battery is fine, cables are fine. I am pretty sure it is the solenoid. Is there a definite way to diagnose this? I need to get to work tommorow, can you quick fix the solenoid by tapping it with a hammer?

 

[SHOtimer]

If your sure that the battery is fine then you are looking at a starter problem, which would mean replacement. They run about 110$ at AZ with a lifetime warranty. The hammer trick didn't work with me, but you can try tapping on the solenoid which is the small cylinder ontop of the starter itself.
Doug

 

[aaronsbiza]

Thanks Doug,

I am hopeing that when I go to start the SHO in the morning that it cranks over. Who knows, the SHO is known for its irregularities. I was pretty sure i would have to replace the starter but I wanted some more opinions, thanks. Is it difficult to replace the starter?

 

[FAST4DR]

If your sure the wires are fine and the battery is not corroded at the terminals, it would be better to have somebody tap the solenoid and the starter motor while you are trying to crank it.

Will

 

[FAST4DR]

Oh, yeah and I forgot to add, that on my 95 the battery cable was loose on the solenoid. The bolt had backed off and the cable did not have good contact and things were acting really funny. Are your interior lights dim?

Will

 

[aaronsbiza]

No, my interior lights are fine. I am pretty sure it is the starter, I don't look forward to crawling under the car.

 

[wood_e]

How many miles are on your car?

 

[SHOtimer]

How long does it take? Well, now I can remove and replace in 15 min flat. I have done this 4 times in the last 2 months, my replacement from AZ died in a parking lot 2 wks after replacement, then of course had to drop it for rod bearings. Just make sure you have a nice long extension and a universal joint. I found the easiest way to get to the front stud was with a deep socket with a universal joint and a long extension that goes behind the PS cooler. Hope you get it runnin, good luck.
Doug