Battery cable replacement

[weldit]

I replaced a worn out positive battery terminal with a new one and as soon as I placed it on the battery, sparks flew and the starter started spinning. I have had problems in the past with the key not turning the engine off. I disconnected the ignition and still had the same problem..
It is a 1970 Ford 2000 3 cylinder diesel.
Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[RufusMons]

If the starter runs when connecting a new battery and you have ruled out the ignition switch, I'd next look at the solenoid wiring. Somehow the solenoid is being triggered.

 

[Destroked 450]

Disconnect the wire from the small terminal on the starter, then connect the battery cable. If the starter cranks over the solenoid is stuck, if the starter does nothing you have a wiring issue

 

[wore out]

If the cable you replaced connects to one of the large posts on the starter solenoid it is likely that you accidental caused the stud to turn a bit in the plastic or bakelite housing of the solenoid as you tightened the nut, you may even have damaged or cracked the plastic.

ANYHOW, if the stud turns it can jam against the switch parts inside the solenoid pushing them together causing power to be sent to the starter all the time as you are experiencing.

If that turns out to be the problem be SURE the replacement solenoid you get is correct for the tractor, there's many solenoids that look alike and function differently.

 

[weldit]

I did try it with the small wire off and the starter turned. I guess I'll replace the solenoid. Thank you both for the help and suggestions.

 

[weldit]

Wore out, thanks for the help! I went back out to make sure I was ordering the right solenoid and reme.bered what you suggested. My wire was touching the small connector causing the charge because it HD twisted everytime I tightened it. Once corrected this solved my problem. My sanity is back!