Sometimes the movable pieces inside get stuck in the open position.

To check to see if this is your problem follow the steps below.

Leave the control plug connected, which is usually a square plug or smaller terminal lugs connected on two or more metal contacts. This is the power that actuates the solenoid's coil and movable plunger.

For safety reasons it is usually better to unhook the connections that go across the solenoid. Be careful when unhooking the hot wire from the "in" connection, it will most likely have 12 VDC on it waiting to cross the solenoid.

             Typical external solenoid           Typical "starter mount" solenoid

Once you have both sides unhooked, press the button or turn your ignition key to start, and listen for a loud click noise at the solenoid.

If you heard the click, then the next step is to place one multimeter lead on each external contact. Now actuate the solenoid again, with your meter in it's lowest Ohms position, you should now get continuity across the main external contacts. If you do then your solenoid is working properly. If you get an open instead proceed on to the next step.

The way to fix a stuck solenoid is to lightly tap on the outside metal casing of the solenoid with a screwdriver handle or similar tool. Sometimes it will jar loose the stuck plunger or contacts. Hook all of the connections up, and try it again. If it still does not work then you will have to buy a new solenoid.

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