Expert: Jeff Grigg - 1/7/2008

Question
When I try to start the motor it sounds like a spinning sound in the motor.  The motor does not turn over.  I have a new battery.  What should I do to troubleshoot this issue?

Answer
First of all even with a new battery make sure it is heavy duty enough and has a full charge.
Clean the battery lead connections at the battery.
Next follow them to the starter solenoid and ground location on the engine block. Remove the battery leads and clean them and the attachment points.
Next do the same with the wires on the starter solenoid. Do them one at a time. Do the same with the lead from the solenoid to the starter.
Do all of this with the battery disconnected.
Reconnect the battery and with the engine cover off try to start the engine. If the starter now works fine.
If the starter just spins, with the key off manually turn the starter gear to make it go up towards the flywheel. Put a dab of grease on the spiral grooves, NOT oil or spray lube. Work the gear up and down to ensure it is free.
Try again.
If the starter still doesn't engage the starter is probably bad. If all you get is a click from the solenoid you will need to do electrical tests. See if you are getting 12 volts to the starter. If so the starter is bad, if not the solenoid is bad.
Jeff