Well, I must say that I've never seen this before. My car has been starting intermittently over that last year, but it always started after turning the key a few times. I was getting a click from the solenoid first, then it would start. Well, it finally refused to start. I went to pull the starter, and the friggin' solenoid is pushed OUT of the starter motor housing. The little ears on the solenoid case are worn off, and the spring inside the solenoid is pushing it out of the motor case. The rest of the starter looks good though, so I hate to drop the cash for a new one if I can fix this one. Are parts available? The solenoid works when it's pushed into the housing, but it won't stay because the tab is gone that holds it there. Can I buy a replacement solenoid, or is this one of those "non-serviceable" units like my repair manual says it is (which I don't believe). Anyone run into this before?

 

I had my starter rebuilt this past winter. I brought it into the guy who does great work and great prices. He looks at me and says "Ut-oh, thats one of those starters that always has oil on/in them and they are expensive for the rebuild kits, $90". I was happy cause I saw how much replacement ones were going for. So it is rebuildable.

 

Thanks Van. I didn't think it would cost $90 though. I'm going to look at it later this week. Right now it only looks like the solenoid needs replaced, so if I can find just the solenoid I should be ok. Any idea where I can find the 'noid?

 

No one sells an OTC solenoid that I know of, but you might be able to get what you need at a repair shop (if they will sell it to you).

 

That's my next step, but I don't know if I'll be able to just buy the solenoid or if I'll get stuck with the whole kit. Thanks for your help!

 

you can buy a solenoid, buts its not worth it. I did, and then the starter went out 6 months later.

 

not highjacking your thread or anything but if what you got doesnt pan out i got one off of my buddies 96 Z that worked fine when the car parked will sell it resonably.

 

Thanks guys, I'll probably just rebuild the whole thing anyway.
I'll keep that used starter in mind too.

 

Doesn't the LT4 come with a different starter that is smaller, better??