1961 Starter

[Ray C.]

While starting the 61 this morning the starter would not disengage in the run position. After a couple tries it started correctly. I drove the car for a couple hundred feet and the starter engaged while the car was moving. Where is the first place to check, switch or solenoid?

Thanks f or the help!
Ray #36314

[Mike M.]

Re: 1961 Starter

switch would be first place i'd inspect. good luck, mike

[Ray C.]

Re: 1961 Starter

Thanks Mike & Donald!

I removed the switch and checked it with an electrical meter in the beep OHM position. I attached one lead to the SOL terminal and the other to the battery terminal. When I turned the key to the on position the meter beeped. The meter also beeped in the start position. I took the switch apart and the internal parts seemed to be in good condition. I did notice where one of the contacts seemed to have arced and there was some black soot. I cleaned the switch parts with electrical contact cleaner and 1500 grit paper, replaced grease only where grease was prior to disassembly and reassembled the switch. I checked the switch with the OHMmeter and only had a beep on SOL when the switch was in the start position not in the on position. I will reinstall and see if my problem is fixed. Any ideas of what would have caused this to happened?

Thanks! Ray # 36314

[Mike M.]

Re: 1961 Starter

contacts arc every time they make contact(when ign switch is in start position). not at all uncommon problem with older delco ing switches. mike

[Ray C.]

Re: 1961 Starter

Thanks for all the help!
Switch is fixed and working just fine!
Ray