Starter problems: solenoid or relay?

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Old Mar 21, 2011 | 08:22 PM
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Default Starter problems: solenoid or relay?

This doesn't seem to happen in the winter, only in the summer. It's on my '67 Camaro.

After I've driven my car (when it gets hot) and then try to start it, I only hear a clicking noise. A friend checked under the hood and the clicking noise is coming from a relay on the fenderwell behind the driverside headlight. There are two there. Is this relay a common problem. If it is clicking, does this mean it is working.
It only clicks once when I turn the key to start it, and once when I let the key go from trying to start it.

Thanks,
Brandon
 
Old Mar 22, 2011 | 01:33 AM
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On the front core support is the voltage regulator and the horn relay. But the starter problem you're describing is commonly referred to as "heat soak". The starter gets too hot from engine/exhaust heat, and the solenoid gets bound up till it cools back off enough. Another thing is if the start wire to the solenoid is getting overheated, it won't carry voltage very well. If the engine is missing the starter heat shield, get one back on. Or you could wrap it with a heat shield "blanket", available from places like Summit.
 
Old Mar 22, 2011 | 03:03 AM
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Thanks for the response. Is it likely I need to replace my solenoid at this point? If so, I believe those are sold separately, is that correct?

I'll definitely check about the heat shield and if one is not present I'll put one there.
 
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