When I turn the key the starter engages with a strong click but wont turn the engine. If I repeat this 2 or 3 times it eventually starts. The battery is good. Does this sound like I need to replace the starter or is something else wrong (ground?). If it is the starter is it easy to replace. What's a new one cost.

Thanks all,
Steve '86 951

 

you can get your hands on a rebuilt BOSCH starter for 250 or so. Or you can just get the solenoid, which usually is the culprit, that can be had for 40 to 60 dollars.

Christian

 

Christian is probably right. Probably the solenoid. If its the starter however you could try this trick...

If ever it refuses to start and just gives you that click try rolling the car a few feet. If you're lucky it will start right up.

If this is works chances are the starter is the culprit, not the solenoid. The starter might have some 'dead spots' on it. Rolling the car or (not really recommended) tapping the starter can cause it to shift a bit, usually off of one of the bad spots. Just know that aggressively tapping a starter is not always a good thing. Better to roll it.

This won't solve the problem, but might keep you from being stranded.

 

You might want to make sure there is no corrosion at the cable connections.

 

Steve
Before you start spending money:
- take out the starter (you need to anyway)
- clean the mechanism and re-lube with molycote (you will be surprised how much dust can come off the clutch...)
- clean the motor internally and have a look at the block brushes
Bench test: clamp the starter in the vice with the gear facing down.
Put power direct on the motor (by-passing the solenoid)FOT JUST A FEW SECONDS, no longer.
If it runs it is OK. You then just earned say $ 250,-- in less than 1 hr.
Tahe care