starter relay problem

[DreamsofaCobra]

I have an '89 Thunderbird (3.8L) with a lot of problems. One of them is inconsistant starting (engine turns, but will not fire). But the problem I am dealing with now is my starter relay is making a clicking sound, but not running the starter motor. I tested it, and it is getting 12-14 volts from the ignition switch, and it seems to work outside of the car. (solid click)

Anyone had this problem? It isn't a bad ground.

The first time it happened I replaced the relay with an off-brand replacment. It worked for a while, then got stuck open. I had to disconnect the battery to stop the starter motor. I threw the original relay in to start the car and it has worked up until now. Could my starter motor be pulling too much current, droping the voltage through the rest of the circuit, and melting the off-brand relay? I don't want to keep throwing relays at the problem.

Thanks,
Matt

[Trigger351]

Sounds like the starter motor has worn bushes which cause it to pole and draw too much current that can weld the solenoid shut and kill the battery.

I would replace the starter motor and the solenoid