1981 Volkswagen Truck Noise under hood when trying to start

HEIDIJWILCOX

MEMBER
1981 VOLKSWAGEN TRUCK

Engine Performance problem
1981 Volkswagen Truck 4 cyl Two Wheel Drive Manual

I have a 1981 VW pickup. I am unable to start the vehicle. The key will turn over as if it will start - but a noise (whining motor noise) will start and that will enable it to completely turn over. The noise will not stop until I remover the battery cable - or until the battery runs out of juice. I'm not sure if it is the starter, alternator, coil? I am not a mechanic by any means. But I want my little VW running again. Even with the key out of the ignition, the noise will continue. It seems to be coming from just under/next to the battery.
Thank you!
Heidi

1 Reply

2CARPRO JACK

MECHANIC
11,533 POSTS

My software doesnt have anything back that far, so hopefully we can figure this out. The only motor noise I coudl think of is the starter motor itself. It sounds like the starter motor is not engaging the engine (Bad solenoid) and wont shut off until you kill power. Does the engine turn over at all?