Mystery Solenoid.........

Makdaddymac · Feb 8, 2008

Both my 90gt and now my 88gt has this problem!!!!!!!!!!!!
the car wont start, and i think batter, or starter but if i play with the solenoid, with a screwdriver it cranks right up???????? i have a MSD coil OEM replacement; that was on both cars. could this be funkng up my solenoids??? is there a better solenoid to buy!!!!!!

Makdaddymac · Feb 8, 2008

whooops,,,sorry, should have posted this in tech!

Darkwriter77 · Feb 8, 2008

Are you sure it's not just the contacts on the ignition switch getting worn out? (The electrical portion, not the lock and tumbler half of the switch, of course.) Just a thought.

Makdaddymac · Feb 8, 2008

ummm??? i have no idea? its a possibility??

jrichker · Feb 9, 2008

From the No Crank checklist for 5.0 Mustangs

Jump the big terminals on the starter relay next to the battery with a screwdriver - watch out for the sparks! If the engine cranks, the starter and power wiring is good. The starter relay is also known as a starter solenoid.

Then pull the small push on connector (small red/blue wire) off the starter solenoid (Looks like it is stuck on a screw). Then jump between the screw and the terminal that is connected to the battery. If it starts, the relay is good and your problem is in the rest of the circuit.

Remember to check the ignition switch, neutral safety switch on auto trans and the clutch safety switch on manual trans cars. If they are good, then you have wiring problems.
Typical start circuit...
Diagram courtesy of Tmoss &Stang&2birds