64 El Camino starter is not turning

[curt101]

I recently had starting problems with my 64 El Camino that made me think the starter was failing. The starter would make a slow grungy sound before fully engaging, and then it just quit turning. Upon removal of the starter it was obvious that it had seen better days. I bought a new one and installed it. When I tried to start it I got nothing. Not even a solenoid click. Starter is connected correctly and starts when you cross the solenoid and battery cable at starter with a screwdriver . I was told if this works the starter/solenoid are good. I also am getting a 12 v reading from the ignition switch wire that runs to the solenoid. I was told it may be the ignition switch even though I am getting a 12 v reading on my multimeter when the ignition switch is turned to start. I removed the ignition switch and noticed there was areas that look as though it got hot at one time on the plastic connector that connects to the back of the switch. No further investigation at this time. Any ignition switch experts out here?

[302NOVA]

I would replace the ignition switch there cheap! If that doesn't do it then I would change the solenoid. I've had some strange problems with solenoides they don't alway work right your getting more amp's off the battery termanal than from the ignition switch wire check the wire and replace if necessary! 302NOVA 1964 two door sedan 500HP would run with the big blocks!!

[manicmechanix]

Originally Posted by 302NOVA

I would replace the ignition switch there cheap! If that doesn't do it then I would change the solenoid. I've had some strange problems with solenoides they don't alway work right your getting more amp's off the battery termanal than from the ignition switch wire check the wire and replace if necessary

I agree. since you have 12V from the ignition switch it sounds like the starter solenoid is bad. I would take the starter back and have the bench test it. Might as well replace the ignition switch and check out the wire.