Universal M 2-12 diesel solenoid question?

Question

I have a sailboat with a Universal 2-12 diesel. I am having intermittent starting problems. I replaced the glow plug switch and the start switch. I have current through the switches. I replaced the in line fuse to the solenoid. How do I determine if the solenoid is bad?

Answer 1

you still havent stated what the problem is.

is the starter spinning, but not engaging the engine?

is the starter not spinning at all but engaging?

or both?

Answer 2

if power is applied to a solonoid you will hear it clicking. You can also feel it when engaged. If your starter is not engaging the flywheel but you can see it spinning....your bendix is bad, chances are your starter is not too far behind it. If you know enough about your solonoid you can turn the key to the on position and jump the solonoid with a screwdriver. If you are not cormfortable doing this....have it checked out by a certified Tech.