About three weeks ago my starter began to crap out -- not all the time, but now and then. In the beginning I'd hit the starter switch and the starter acted like the battery was low -- dragged (both hot and cold). Finally, it began to occasionally do nothing, just a "click" when I tried to start -- hit it again, and it might start (or might not).

I checked the voltage to the starter -- it was good. I checked the voltage to the ignition wire -- it was good. I took the starter off -- even sitting on the bench, with 12v run directly to the starter terminal the starter would not turn (however, the solenoid did still work, and passed power).

I took this solenoid off and put it on a "know good" starter which I had. It worked fine. I put it on the Raider and have hand no problems -- until yesterday.

On the way home from work it began to sound "weak" -- just like last time. This morning it would not start - "click".

I hit it a few times and it finally cranked and started, but the starter sounded really weak -- like the battery was almost dead (this has been checked, charging system and battery are fine & jump starting made absolutely no difference).

What do you think? Another starter just went out by chance? I have some problem somewhere that is causing this? Do I just bite the bullet and buy a new starter?

I need learned opinions!!!!

Any help most appreciated -- this is a real pain to replace, and I don't want to make a habit of this!

Terry

BTW - I do have an oil leak high on the engine on the drivers side, the starter is wet with oil. This couldn't somehow be causing this, could it???????