burned up 4 starter solenoids in 2 weeks... WTF??

[FastDriver]

I just can't figure it out. It's as if whatever closes the circuit inside of the starter solenoids is fusing with the other terminal because the starter just keeps turning over refusing to stop, even when the keys are completely removed from the ignition.

Several month ago, I burned up the first one along with my starter because I had no way to shut it off. I replaced both and ran pretty happily for about a month, and then in the last two weeks I've been through 4 more starter solenoids. After I had to just let the first starter burn up, I started carrying a 1/2" wrench so that I could disconnect the battery cable if need be. I've managed to avoid burning up my new starter, but I just can't figure out what's causing these solenoids to stick. After inspecting it, the cable running from the negative terminal of the solenoid to the starter seems to be in good working order both at its endpoints and along the cable - no rust or corrosion. The starter is brand new. I even replaced the ignition switch.

Does anyone know what my problem is?

Thanks,

Chris

 

[1986LX2002]

sounds like my problem i had about a 5 months ago. Went to the car show and the damn thing wouldnt stop cranking. Went to autozone bought a new one, ran fine for a week and killed that one. Went back there traded it and got another one "ok thats too now" started fine then died the next day. Went back there bascially tossed it too the guy and said keep it and gimme my money. Went to Napa and got a "heavy duty unit" which is red and now car works fine and its been a while now. I feel your pain though, My stomach would turn each time i'd put the ket in the ignition wondering if it would start at all.

 

[jrichker]

Look for a bad -ground -

1.) The main power ground is from engine block to battery: it is the power ground for the starter & alternator. Remove and check the ground cable for damage or corrosion up near the post clamp. Bend the cable and look for signs of hidden corrosion or damage. Clean the crimp on lug and the spot on the block where is bolts down.

2.) The secondary power ground is between the back of the intake manifold and the driver's side firewall. It is often missing or loose. It supplies ground for the A/C compressor clutch and other electrical accessories such as the gauges. Any car that has a 3G alternator needs a 4 gauge ground wire running from the block to the chassis ground where the battery pigtail ground connects.

 

[Copperstang87]

I had the problem in my 4 banger 2 yrs ago, i was going thru a solenoid every couple days, it was my voltage regulator. After that everything was fine and I didnt burnout anymore solenoids.