>"I've purchased a solenoid only from the dealer, so I'd expect the online
>vendors could similarly supply one."

I haven't checked with the local dealers yet, but I have been unable to
find an online vendor who seems to stock it. I would like to be shown to
be wrong, as I would much rather pay them, than the local dealers.

BTW, thanks to all for the replies and suggestions. When I finally climb
under there, after the deep freeze passes, we will certainly try things
starting with the easy method before trying to pull the thing out. I
suspect that at least one of the ideas that were passed on will be the
cure, as the starter seems to seldom be the actual culprit.

Much obliged,

John