Installed new starter but it does not turn the motor?

LAMAMELLE

MEMBER
1988 SUBARU XT
1.8L
4 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
250,000 MILES

Howdy! I just installed a new (refurbished) starter in the vehicle listed above that's been sitting for about a year. When I turn the key, all I get is a rapid clicking sound, which I'll attach in this video. I have a 2-guage wire going from the battery to the starter, which I think is correct but I'm not 100% sure. As far as I can tell everything else is fine, the engine came out of another working vehicle and I was able to turn it by hand, the battery is new and charged, and the starter is getting 12v from the battery. I had read that some starters needed to be manually adjusted. If that's so with this engine, what would be the process for it?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,724 POSTS

Hi,

Adjust? I'm not sure what they are referring to. It only bolts in one way. LOL

As far as the clicking, it sounds like a weak battery. Is the battery fully charged and in good condition? You could have a weak cell in it which reduces the amperage when it is under a load. Also, check the ground to the engine block from the battery to make sure it is clean and tight, free of damage.

Let me know.

Joe