DIY: Starters/Solenoids

Solenoid Replacement

   Solenoids are located either on the inside fender in the engine compartment or on the starter itself.

   To replace the inside fender mounted solenoid:

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

2. Remove the positive cable from the battery, the cable going to the starter, and the small wire or wires connected to the solenoid. Write down or note their exact locations.

3. Remove the attaching screws and take out the old solenoid.

4. Install the new solenoid in the same location and reattach the wires and cables. Make sure all the connections are clean and tight.

5. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

   To replace a starter-mounted solenoid:

1. Remove the starter. (See above.)

2. Remove the braided strap from the starter to the solenoid.

3. Remove the mounting screws and/or bolts. Remove the solenoid housing. You may have to rotate the housing one way or the other to get it off. On some starters the plunger and spring may be loose. On other, the solenoid plunger stays in the solenoid, and the end will have to be worked off the starter shift lever.

4. Install the new solenoid in the reverse order of removal. If the plunger stays with the solenoid, the end must be engaged with the starter shift lever. If the solenoid plunger remained attached to the starter, insert it in the solenoid. Make sure the spring is in place between the plunger and solenoid body. Hold the body in place and tighten the attaching screws.

5. Reconnect the cable and wiring when you install the starter.

6. Reconnect the ground cable to the battery.

   This is fairly straightforward job. The only thing you need to remember is that you should be careful to reconnect any wires or cables to the proper places Replacing a starter and/or solenoid should take you about one to two hours, depending on the make and model of car.

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