Starter motor problems

[Bob Mullan]

Hi. When I turn the key on my Massey FE 35 the starter motor turns over but won t stop. I have to remove the battery terminal to disable it. I thought it was a faulty ignition switch so I replaced it with a new one. On trying it the problem still remains. Could it be a problem with the starter motor :?: :?:

 

[DanielW]

Possibly a stuck starter solenoid - usually they stick such that they don't come on, but I've had them stick just like yours where they don't shut off. Either sticky from rust/crud in them, or else the return spring is broken. If you feel like it, you can
usually take the solenoids apart and clean up the contacts, check them out &c. But it's usually just easiest to replace the solenoid. Which usually means it's about time for a starter rebuild/replacement.

The odd thing is that it fixes itself when you disconnect the battery? Hmmm. Does it ever start cranking again as soon as you re-connect the battery?

Assuming the key switch is wired correctly, I'd start with pulling the start/trip wire (the small wire leading to the small/third terminal) off the solenoid, then measuring voltage at it while you turn they key. It should get power in the 'start'
position, then shut off once the key returns to the Run/On position. If this is working correctly it's a starter/solenoid issue. If you keep getting voltage at the small wire, it's a wiring issue.

 

[Bob Mullan]

Hi. I will try it again tomorrow a few times to ensure that it disables when the battery terminal is removed. Many thanks. Bob

 

[John T]

I agree with the others, a solenoid can be sticking in the closed position which
sometimes a sharp rap can loosen .....Sometimes if the battery is low that can cause
solenoid contacts to stick/burn/weld together......I have seen faulty starter bendix
drives hang to the flywheel causing the starter to keep turning...

Im sure there could be other possible causes the fine gents can add to these

John T

 

[rustred]

Its not the whole starter ,just replace the solenoid on it.
Mostly would happen when using a battery with low
charge. The contacts get hot and stick together. Which
would be the hold in winding terminals. There is windings
in a solenoid. Pull in and hold in. When the hold in
winding is shot thats where u get that click click click.
Cause the hold in winding is not taking over . When the
pull in winding is shot u get nothing.