1996 gtx clicking when trying to crank

[Waterboy107]

So on my 96 gtx when I try to crank it, the solenoid just clicks. I had this problem a few years back and replaced the solenoid and that solved the problem but I put a new solenoid in and still the same thing. It doesn’t feel like it’s engaging the starter so I didn’t know if that would be a bad wire somewhere or a fuse? I replaced the starter two or three years ago so I don’t think the starter would be bad already but didn’t know if anyone had this problem and how to solve it.

 

[mikidymac]

If you are using an aftermarket starter or solenoid then they definitely could be bad already.

 

[etemplet]

Jump the posts on top of the solenoid with an OLD junky screw driver or OLD pair of pliers. If the engine turns over you've proved the solenoid or electrical system to engages it is faulty. IF it is clicking it could still be bad. As for the starter, if you put a cheap one on there it could be bad. Even worse if you got water in the ski they will go bad quickly.

Remove the PTO cover and make sure the engine is free. Just rock it a bit.

You could have a ground problem on the ski. The engine ground is on the stater on my 1996.

Good Luck !

 

[Waterboy107]

Okay I tried jumping the post on the solenoid and nothing so I’m thinking maybe the starter is bad because I know there has been water in it since the starter was put in.

 

[Waterboy107]

Okay I tried jumping the post on the solenoid and nothing so I’m thinking maybe the starter is bad because I know there has been water in it since the starter was put in.

Also I can remove the spark plugs and turn the pto shaft so the motor isn’t seized

 

[Ckrawiec]

Okay I tried jumping the post on the solenoid and nothing so I’m thinking maybe the starter is bad because I know there has been water in it since the starter was put in.

Make certain ALL wiring and connections are clean and properly connected AND ROUTED, all fuses are good and the battery is tiptop. Verify all ground wires are in place as well. If you apply direct battery power to the starter (by shorting the solenoid posts) and you still get nothing, the starter should try to spin the engine (assuming the starter is good) and the engine is not seized (which you already confirmed).

Conclusion....bad starter....OR bad wire(s) to/from the starter.

 

[Waterboy107]

Been really busy lately but finally got a new starter and put it in and it cranks like a champ again! Thanks for the help!