Starter solenoid???

[Jtinius]

My Tartan 30 has been having trouble starting. When I try to start it you can hear the solenoid click but it will only turn over every once in a while. I replaced the solenoid and if anything the problem got worse. I was thinking that it could just be the switch, but, it always clicks when I turn the key. Also, if I bridge the bolts on the solenoid with a wrench it starts right up every time....

Any thoughts?

[Dave Neptune]

Grounds

Jtinius, it's probably the grounds!! Check the battery connections and the connection from the battery to the block~a very common condition. Then clean the positive sides which are usually not the culprit.

Dave Neptune

[Dave Neptune]

Oops!

Jtinius, just noticed this was your first post so a late welcome to the Afourian Forum.

Dave Neptune

[joe_db]

I had this issue. The long wire run and exposed-to-the-elements switch caused erratic starter engagement. I added an extra relay near the engine and it is totally cured

[Kelly]

wires or starter switch

What Dave said and +1. If you check/replace/clean the wires in this circuit, and especially the grounds, you'll more than likely solve your problem. Another possibility is the starter switch itself. In my case, recent symptoms like your own were eliminated with a new switch.