58 Starter Solenoid

[Ken Susnjara]

In the process of wiring up my 58 project I was able to torque the starter solenoid enough to break it. Now I need to find another. First, is there anything special about the 58, dates, numbers, etc? Then, where is a good source for a replacement. I am trying to do a really accurate restoration. Any help or advise is appreaciated.

[Roy B.]

Re: 58 Starter Solenoid

Torque it where ? how? what broke?

[Dennis A.]

Re: 58 Starter Solenoid

Ken...

Not sure how you broke it, you might try John Pirkle and discuss if he can restore it. (www.johnpirkle.com)

[Ken Susnjara]

Re: 58 Starter Solenoid

I tightened up the power electrical lead without using a back up wrench ( I know, dumb move) and broke the backelite cover into several pieces. You might be able to glue it back together but???.

[Mark S.]

Re: 58 Starter Solenoid

You should be able to get a similar bakelite cover from a salvage yard. They are fairly easy to replace.

[Mike E.]

Re: 58 Starter Solenoid

Stamped into every original solenoid is a part number--I believe (going from memory here--a scary thing) that the 58 ended in 9919. (61-62 were 9910). If you don't have that, and you're wanting to do an accurate restoration, you'll need to find a correct one. If you want a visually accurate one, then the above posts are helpful, and are also helpful if it is the correct one and all you need to do is replace the original bakelite with a similar Delco one from the boneyard.

[Ken Susnjara]

Re: 58 Starter Solenoid

Thanks for the help.

[William C.]

Re: 58 Starter Solenoid

If you already have the stamped part number Mke referenced, the phenolic (Bakelite) part on the end that you broke is identical on all from '58-the mid-80's not only from Chevrolet, but almost any GM product, and as mentioned, very easy to replace. Turn around the terminals where the contacts are worn (obvious) and you are good to go...

[Roy B.]

Re: 58 Starter Solenoid

There are a couple on e-bay now

[Ken Susnjara]

Re: 58 Starter Solenoid

Thanks again. I glued the parts back together using epoxy and it works OK, looks OK too after a little work on the outside. I will probably take your advice and replace the back piece anyway, just to be safe. Again, thanks all.