Sounds like the "click" is probably the solenoid engaging; does the starter even try to spin? If not, then a rebuild of the starter is in order; most generator/starter business can do this for less than a new starter would cost. Good luck.
You could try to jump the starter directly from your battery and see if it runs; this will tell you if the solenoid is defective.
You can go across the big solenoid terminals with a big pair of pliers and see what happens.
It isn't the body and cap mismatched upon reassembly that cause the starter to run backwards...it is the magnet assy inside. If you put that in 180 degrees off from how it came out, it will run backwards.
jlemberg...remember me? I have starters.
Pay attention to the marks on the end cap and body of the starter or better yet mark the body and cap so they will line up when you put it back together; otherwise you could have a starter that runs backwards, I won't tell you how I know. Good luck
You can check the starter by connecting power to the two leads directly. It would be a good idea to remove the starter and do this by connecting it directly to a 12v battery with jumper cables. That way you eliminate any potentially bad connections in the motor head (and you don't have to worry about spinning the flywheel). Connect the battery - to the - connection on the starter (usually the frame), then momentarily touch the battery + to the + connection on the starter. Be sure to hold onto the starter as it will jump when it gets power (if it's still working). Do this away from any fire source as you will generate a pretty good spark with the connection, and if the starter is shorted, a really big spark (that's why you do it only momentarily).
If the starter spins when the battery is connected, your problem is somewhere else in the system. Also, if it spins, you should see the bendix gear go up the shaft then drop down when power is removed.
If its the starter, I'll definitely send you some funds. As far as the troubleshooting, what ignition key postion should I be in when I jump the solenoid terminals? I am assuming it's the two smaller terminals on the front of the solenoid?
Nope...do not short the two small terminals. Nothing will happen.
If you are testing just the starter function, just leave the key off.
You must use a very large gauge wire (jumper cable, only one lead needed), or very large pliers to span across the solenoid between the two very large terminals on each side. One side is straight to the battery, the other side goes to the starter. When you jump across, you are applying battery power to the starter directly, and have eliminated the solenoid from the picture (for the time being anyway).
Gotta use a very heavy wire or pliers, and it will spark big time. Hold it on there tight, and depending how good the connection is, it might get hot on you. Careful.
Good deal on a starter for you. Much cheaper than a rebuild and I absolutely guarantee it.
We have to talk about this trouble with cold starting....PM me with phone number.
