Bizarre (to me, anyway) problem - electrical/starting/power.

[94 SHO RED]

I've got a 94 SHO ATX 3.2

When I turn the ignition key, the solenoid clicks (the engine doesn't move)and all the power goes out. I turn the key off, and after about 10 or 20 seconds without doing anything else, the power comes back on. When I arc the starter at the solenoid, the same thing happens as if I had turned the key. There are no check engine lights. Everything works.

I replaced the starter and solenoid... and it made no difference.

The battery is fully charged. When I jump the car, it starts instantly and runs like a champ.

I love this car. But I don't know squat about its electronics. I've tightened the battery clamps. What's my next move?

[shorod]

I'd suggest that you remove the battery cables at the battery and check for corrosion. It sounds like you are not getting enough current to the starter. Since jump starting the car works fine, the problem either has to be at the cable connection to the battery or the battery itself. Don't rule out that you could have a broken connection internal to the battery that goes open circuit under a large load. A battery charger will not charge at anywhere near the current required by the starter during a start attempt.

-Rod

[worthirt_99]

I agree with shorod. How long have you had that battery? It probaly just went bad.

[UsedtobeSmart]

Battery on my 94 GL just died one day. Worked wonderfully the day before, next day... nada. So check the voltage on the battery before starting once you check the terminals if you haven't already. Might be dying and just not kicking out enough juice even though it's "fully charged".