wiring issues with starter

[comet traveler]

I just put a new solenoid on my 1959 Johnson Super Seahorse 35. The lsat solenoid that was on it was a car one, so it was wired differently. I've got the correct one. I've got it so when I turn the key it cranks the engine, but then when I let off it keeps cranking! until I unhook the battery. So here's how it's wired. +12 from batt going into first big post, heavy guage wire going to unit (to starter) from other big post. Now, for the little posts, I've tried it both ways... wire coming from ignition switch going to one post, and a ground wire going to engine from the other... I thought it may have something to do with these so I switched them, but still works the same way. What am I doing wrong here? I'm at a loss. Thank you all.

 

[Walker]

Re: wiring issues with starter

You may have a bad key switch or solenoid. . Disconnect the cable to the starter and put a volt meter on the small starter wire post. Hit the key and see if you get voltage and see if you drop the voltage when you relese the key.<br />If that checks out okay then put the volt meter on the starter cable pole and do the same test.

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: wiring issues with starter

Touch the Hot side of solinoid to the ungrounded small terminal, and see what it does. Looking for a faulty switch here.

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: wiring issues with starter

Walker: Looks like we were typing at the same time. Your test would be a good way to go.

 

[comet traveler]

Re: wiring issues with starter

Ok, sounds good. I haven't tried that. The switch is virtually new and never given me a prob, plus in some other tests I've done with a meter the switch has been working fine. I'm definitely confused with it, haha. Is it possible for a solenoid to just not 'release' (for lack of a better word)? It's brand new, but don't suppose that means it works right. Thanks