Starter issues

RAINMAN5150

MEMBER
1996 FORD E-SERIES VAN

My starter will not start and I bypassed the solenoid on the starter by using a screwdriver across both leads and heard the starter motor spin. Will that crank the engine over by doing that? I thought it wouldn't kinda like doing a bench test but I've been told by the parts store that it should have. As of right now I believe I just need to replace the solenoid on the starter but do I need to replace the starter as well?

1 Reply

FREEMBA

MECHANIC
1,152 POSTS

Instructions for jump starting a starter solenoid (assuming that your solenoid has only three terminals---two fro battery cables and one for the ignition switch wire)

1 Raise the hood of the vehicle and locate the solenoid. The solenoid is a round box-type part with a mounting bracket on the back. It has two prongs on the front, a stud on the left and a stud on the right.
2 Trace the positive battery cable by hand to the solenoid. This will be the positive side of the solenoid. Put on rubber gloves to prevent electric shock via the screwdriver.
3 Turn the ignition key to the "On" position.
4 Place the metal end of the screwdriver nearest the handle on the positive side of the solenoid and allow the other end to touch the prong in front of the solenoid. The engine will turn over. Remove the screwdriver as soon as the engine starts.

If the starter only spins, chances are the bendix (starter drive) is bad. In that case remove it and have it checked before buying a new starter.