using a cheap voltmeter. I think I may have isolated the problem to a
loose connection on terminal 50, the trigger wire.

I realized that the big 8mm bolt with the 13mm nut (terminal 30) was hot
all the time.  Current didn't flow through until current was applied to
terminal 50 (small spade terminal) on the solenoid.  So, if I apply
current to terminal 30 (big bolt), then take a tester probe and touch
terminal 50, she spins.

Right now, the van is starting with the key.  Let's see how long this
situation lasts.  ;-)

Wife doesn't seem to keen on the idea of me buying another vehicle.

Regards,
Craig

Craig Oda wrote:

> When I got back from camping at Yosemite, van wouldn't start.  No
> engine-turnover, no sound.  Checked the electrical wiring connections
> and measured voltage.  Still nothing.  Connected a Sears diehard
> directly to terminal 30 on the solenoid (the big screw I think is
> terminal 30), nothing.
>
> After tapping and jiggling, my van starts now, but I want to avoid the
> problem in the future.  FYI, I have the hard start relay and I have a
> new starter and new solenoid.   Also, new battery and I checked the
> slider switch connections and voltage in my automatic shifter housing.
>
> I have some basic questions about how a starter works.   I have a spare
> starter outside of the engine that I can play around with.
>
> If I connect negative terminal of a battery to the starter housing as a
> ground, can I connect positive to terminal 30 or 50 and see the starter
> gear spin? (remember I have a spare starter on a work bench)   I tried
> this and it didn't work.  I didn't connect terminals 30 and 50 to
> positive at the same time.  Maybe I should do this.
>
> Terminals 16 and 30 on the solenoid appear to be connected together.
> Are they?
>
> There is another big 13mm nut next to terminal 30.  Should I apply
> voltage to that one?
>
> I figure that once I figure out how to apply electrical juice to the
> starter on my bench properly, I'll have a better idea of how to deal
> with a no-start condition on the road (or on the dirt).
>
> Thankfully, the Westy served me faithfully for over 500 miles this past
> weekend and only quit on me when I was parked at home.  I appreciate the
> consideration it extended me, but I'm hoping to get to the source of the
> problem.
>
> Thanks.  It's great weather for camping here in northern california.
>
> -- Craig