97TSI5.2

My 97 ZJ 5.2lv8's Starter is not reponding when attemping to turn the ignition key and start it. Its getting power and all the lights on the dash come on when attemping to start but the starter motor does not even make a noise. Tried switching the windshield wiper and starter fuses around to see if that was the problem but to no avail..Do I need to replace my starter motor? the vechicle has 71,000 miles and some change..pretty sure its the factory starter.

Anyone had this problem before or know the solution?

OverlandZJ

Just swapped in a starter to the Mrs 5.2L ZJ this am. Multimeter?

You need to verify voltage to the starter, if the terminals are coroded it might not be getting sufficient voltage.

If you dont have a multimeter you can remove the starter and use jumper cables to bench test the starter. Ground to starter casing where the mounting bolt passes through, positive to the large upper stud. It should turn.

If it doesnt grab a new starter... but avoid Autozone. I am on my third starter in 9 months. I suggest paying a bit more, about 150 from NAPA.

97TSI5.2

Thanks for the advice

Bustedback

How old is the battery?

97TSI5.2

Battery is about 4-5months old and everything seems to get power, all the lights on the dash come on, the only thing that doesnt response or make a noise is the starter. So i am thinking OverlandXJ has got me on the right track..either a dead starter or coroded terminals....most likely dead starter that needs to be replaced, havent had a chance to mess with it yet tho

Bustedback

Take a 12volt test light and place the probe on the small starter terminal and have somebody crank the engine, if the test light lights up and nothing happens you have a solenoid problem. If there is no light you have an open circuit between the ignition switch and starter (relay, nns, ignition switch).

97TSI5.2

Thanks, good stuff Bustedback..i didnt have anyone to help me out with that but i tapped the starter and solenoid with some channel locks and it started up..the starter did seem a little slow.. so I think the solenoid is going bad or is coroded inside??should I probably remove the solenoid and hit it with some stealwool to clean it up and extend its life??

tiwvr1

just replace it

Bustedback

The solenoid is not really a serviceable part on these starters, just get a new starter.

97TSI5.2

Yea just I replaced it, one of the brass screws coming off the solenoid was loose and causing a short and the starter was starting very slowly like the motor was packed with dirt, grease, and grime. Changed it out and works great..did get the starter motor at Advanced Auto Parts, remanufactured by Worldwide. They said it has a lifetime warranty...so we'll see what happens.

Thanks for all the help yall