Do I need a starter?

You hit it. It's a coincidence. Or, ... The starter felt sorry for the amp!

If you have the little silver Nippendenso starter, it is common for them to develop worn solenoid contacts. It will crank the engine if you cycle the ignition switch to the "crank" position a few times. The contacts can be replaced seperately, but most people just replace the entire starter.

Caradiodoc

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.com.

If you hear a fast clicking sound, that usually indicates the battery is too weak to turn the engine. With that in mind, you need to check a couple things for me. First, why is the battery going dead after sitting? You need to check for what is called a parasitic draw on the battery. Basically, even though everything is turned off, something is still drawing enough power to ruin the battery. Follow this link to check,

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-dead-overnight

If I misunderstood what is happening, let me know. Also, you mentioned if it sits a day this happens. The link indicates over night. However, it is the same principal involved. It may just be a slower draw.

As in all electrical concerns, make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked

Let me know if this helps.

Take care,
Joe

Is that multiple rapid clicks or one single rather loud clunk each time you turn the ignition switch to "crank"? If it's a single clunk, it has worn contacts inside the starter solenoid. Those can be replaced for less than $20.00 but most people just replace the entire starter. Many hardware stores and farm supply stores have the repair kits that have more parts than you need for any one starter.

What happens the first time? Does the starter not work?

Could be the starter, starter relay, transmission range switch and ignition switch assuming the battery and connections are good.