94 Lebaron won't start

Since I purchased this car, I've driven it at least 1000 miles with absolutely no problems except that the alarm component inside the glove box was ticking (sounded like a blinker). I disconnected the alarm, and it still started fine (this was about 1000 miles ago).

So today, I drove about 60 miles, turned the car off and on several times during the day. However, at my final destination I attempted to start the car again in order to put the convertable top back up. Upon trying to start the car, it only barely turned over once or twice, maybe three times, then nothing.

The solenoid that would 'click' once, but nothing else. The instrument panel lights all work fine, the battery guage shows sufficent power. The headlights do not dim at all when turning the ignition. All this, but without the engine turning over. Nothing.

I called a buddy to help me out, exchanged my battery with his and still nothing except a click in the solenoid.

My brakes do need changing and are quite mushy but does stop with no problems.

Any advice or theory as to what could be wrong here? Thanks in advance.

I began by reconnecting the security alarm, locking the doors, then unlocking it with the key. This made the alarm component quit clicking like a blinker.

Car still didn't start.

I also ran the self-diagnostic test via the ignition codes. I recieved a 12, which by my research means that ' the battery or the computer has recently been disconnected'. Well, I did disconnect the battery last night, but I was hoping for something more specific to the problem. I recieved this code repeatedly.

After that, with the ignition on, I banged on the starter with a tire tool and that caused a whirring sound (like the sound the engine makes before kicking over. I jumped back in the car, turned the key, and I heard a few repetitive clicks of what I believed to be the starter. After that, nothing. Still won't start.

So I'm guessing it's the starter and I'll extract it probably today or tomorrow.

I pulled the starter, took it to Autozone, failed the bench test. So tomorrow I'll call around for a 'U pull it' starter, or else buy a new one. (with the core, about $90 at Autozone).

I'll check in after I install another starter.

Hi
Do not get on this thing real often... Sorry I missed your first Thread.. Just purchased new stater and solenoid for 84 labaron yesterday at advance auto $54.... plus $15 or $69 total till I return old starter My problem sounds same as yours Another solution to check is relay battery side of fender. These also sold at advance about $19 They can look it up for you ast pat of the starter system if you need. I replaced as part of preventative maint... But sounds to me like you have your problem nailed
FITZ

This go around, yes, switching starters was the answer. Running strong again.