Hey guys, I'm looking for some advice with my starting problems.

When I turn the key, the solenoid always clicks but the starter usually won't crank. Sometimes it will fire right up after a few turns of the key. Sometimes it won't crank at all for a few minutes of turning the key, but eventually it will fire up. However, I've had starter problems before and I know it won't eventually start forever. The battery/sufficient power doesn't seem to be an issue since it fires up nicely when it does decide to crank and all the lights turn on and are bright while attempting to start.

I have had similar symptoms before and I eventually narrowed it down to a bad starter (bench test confirmed), replaced it, and it worked fine for a few months to a few years, but I'm now on starter number 4 or 5 (I've lost track). I checked all the cables and grounds leading to the starter the last time I replaced it and found no issues. Before I tear out the starter and buy a new one (get this one tested first, obviously), are there any specific things I should look for that could be the cause other than repeatedly getting shitty refurbished starters?

P.S. A friend of mine has a 1993 Grand Prix and has had the exact same problems, leading me to believe that the refurbished GM starters are pieces of **** .

Any help is greatly appreciated.

You don't say what engine not that it matter much. Could be heat related, you could add a heat sheild between the starter and engine.

The solenoid also has the contacts to run the motor which can wear down over time and heat does not help. Could also just be the parts the rebuilder is using.

2.5L engine.

I like the heat shield idea... would they be available at any old parts store?

If your handy you can just fab one. Or do a search on the net and you can find them many places. they just mount by pulling the bolts that go though the motor and mounting the sheild.

http://paceperformance.com/...IEWPROD&ProdID=29365

[This message has been edited by Dodgerunner (edited 05-23-2009).]

You mentioned that you checked your wires, but are they original? They do corrode and wear out from the inside out, so it might be cheap insurance to replace the big battery cables - both of them.