Starter solenoid

[xxyzx]

I have a 2001 national carribean (diesel) on the last couple of trips out when I turn the key to start the motor I get a click and nothing. Some times I have to turn the key off and on 2 to 3 times before it starts. The batteries are 2 years old and I cleaned all of the connections and the batteries show good under load when checked.

On my old cars, the starter solenoid would be my first suspect, but not sure about this diesel pusher. I think the solenoid is in the electrical compartment located under the driver window, is that it? What make/year should I look for to get a proper replacement?

[sgtjoe]

Mine went bad on my 2001 Diesel Tradewinds, it was in the rear of the MH on the frame across from the starter. If you remember on the old chevs it was on the firewall and you could use a screwdriver to start the car. Same thing on the diesels. I took the old one to NAPA Auto Supply who crossed it over to ST404. The old part# was SAZ-4201CG. To be sure it was the solenoid I used a screwdriver to start the MH and it started.

[Ragman]

Hi XX,
I'll concur with what Sgt. Joe says. I have a 2001 Tradewinds 39-ft. and my solenoid went out when I was in Mazatlan, Mex. about 750 miles south of the border. I removed it and took it to an automotive store and they had one. It was $22 American $$.

The solenoid in the electrical compartment under the drivers window is to charge your batteries while you are driving down the highway A friend of mine who has an Islander checked and confirmed this.

I might let you know that in the automotive world they do call it a solenoid. In the RV world I believe they refer to it as a relay. As Sgt. Joe says, you will find it on the passenger side of the frame. Different from the old solenoids we are used to, it has two small cables and two wires and is attached to the frame with two small bolts. It's a pain in the butt but fairly easy to remove. Long arms are a real asset.

I've replaced it twice since then. Once in Quartzsite, AZ where I purchased it from a very small automotive store. And the other time, just outside of Albuquerque, NM. Next time I will go to a Freightliner outlet and see if they hold up better. Each time I purchased it they were from $22-28.00. As Sgt. Joe says, take a screw driver and cross the two cables. That will tell you quickly if that's your problem.

Last winter I had to replace my starter in Harlingen, TX. The Bendix spring went out. I found out the starter is a Nippendenso (sp?) made in Japan. I got a quote from $350-$600 and have it shipped to Harlingen. But I found a good alternater/starter rebuilder shop in Harlingen who rebuilt it for $120, so I was very happy. The owner told me he was surprised it went out because it is a very good starter and you will find them on the inline Dodges and all of the CAT backhoes.

Anyway best of luck to you. Feel free to call on me if I can help you in any way. 972-279-5234

Larry

[xxyzx]

Thanks St Joe and Ragman

I appreciate your replies. I have had a few expensive fixs this year in addition to new tires and trying to do a little DIY to save money. I used to pay over $300 to have the oil changed and lube everything, now I do it myself. It really is not hard and saves me good money for other RV toys.

I have found that what ever the problem/fix as soon as they know its an RV they add $500 to whatever the starting price would be.

[sgtjoe]

I gather from your post it was the solonoid. Forgot to mention after I stretched my arms to reach the solonoid from the top and bottom to remove it I got a little smarter on puting it back in, I took the mounting plate off the frame and then put the solonoid on first.

[xxyzx]

Yes! I did replace the solenoid and have taken it out twice with no problems. I just went to my local napa and they fixed me up with a new one. Your right taking the mounting plate off with the solenoid attached would have been easier. Had to rest my arms quite few times while taking it off and putting the new one on.