Expert: Sean Halliday - 6/25/2009

Question
QUESTION: only clicks when key is turned. relaced solenoid, starter relay. Had battery and starter tested, both tested good. Tried starting it in neutral, same clicking. Tried arcing it under the hood, still won't start. sometimes the volt meter reads dead battery then it reads fully charged when you turn the key the next time.  when the gauge reads fully charged and you turn the key it to start it the gauge drops below 8. still only clicks.  what is left to try?

ANSWER: Did you try a different battery?Sounds like a dead cell under load the battery is not putting out enough amps even though it reads ok.

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QUESTION: thank you for your response.  Yes, tried another battery, still same clicking only.  Any other ideas?

Answer
Does the engine turn over if you turn the crankshaft?Place a socket on the big crankshaft nut and see if it does.The reason could be a seized motor.The clicking has got to be either the solenoid,starter or starter switch.A bad earth can do it as well.A direct connection from a power source to the starter will confirm if the starter is working or not.If it works,then the problem is in the wiring/connections.