71 Merc 500 starting problem

[jsred]

I have a 71 Merc 500. I am getting 12v to the starter solenoid and have replaced the solenoid with a new one. but the starter will not engage. When i turn the key to the start position you can hear the solenoid click. The starter will crank if you jump the hot lead directly to the starter. Any ideas?

 

[JB]

Re: 71 Merc 500 starting problem

Take the heavy wire from the solenoid to the starter off. Check it for weakness or swelling. Scrub both tabs shiny and reinstall. That will eliminate one quick, cheap fix. Also possible that you got a bad solenoid.

When you jumped +12v from the battery to the starter terminal, what did you do about a ground? If you also jumped the ground to the block, do the same with the battery ground cable, particularly where it bolts to the engine block.

Good luck.