97 continental won't start

1997 continental won't start at all. I turn the key and nothing, all the lights work every thing works but it will not start. I put a charge on the battery and still nothing. The last few times it did start seemed like the battery was low. Than nothing.

Battery has a full charge! Car does not every turn over. Not even a click .

Help please

Clean and refit all the battery cables first, including the one on the starter.

I slow charged the battery over night and cleaned all the terminals. It still does not crank. I ran a screw driver across the starter and all I got was a little spark, the starter did not move.

Sounds like the starter is toast.. next step is pulling it out for a bench test.
How's the weather over there?

Ok a bench test it is, the weather is record setting, blue sky and record temps.

The rear wheel bearing hub was easy took 45min. Will try and get it out today.

How do you bench test it just give it neg and positive power?

Thanks

Well I took my tools outside and was getting ready to remove the starter. But first I took my hammer and gave it about 5 hits. People always saying to hit starter with a hammer. Well I turned the key and the dam thing fired right up. Works just fine now. Total cost of repair $70 to get it towed home.:banghead:

Now the question is do I replace it or just leave it? I put hammer right beside me on the front seat

Well.. it's the warm season.. or will be soon. If it was me I wouldn't want it to fail when the repair means crawling around in the rain or snow.. however, since it's warm now.. maybe wait till just before the seasons turn cold again and replace it then just for peace of mind.

I decided to replace the starter. Just not comfortable to go out and not sure if it will start. I got the old one out and will have the new used one tomorrow.
Pretty easy stuff so far.

Installed a New used starter I got from the salvage yard for $100 delivered. 90 day warranty.
Works great, car starts no problem.

Thanks Towncar for your help.