1991 Town Car Starter Solenoid keeps malfunctioning

Asked by Nathan Sep 09, 2016 at 11:55 AM about the 1991 Lincoln Town Car Signature

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

The Starter Solenoid shorted out about 1,000 miles/1 month ago, it would
"tap" and go click once but not engage when I turned the key in the ignition.
So I replaced it and it started up just fine after a tap, a click, and a brief
hesitation. Now, after 1 month and 1,000 miles I'm getting the same damn
problem again. I don't want to replace it a second time, just to have it die a
third time :/

How would I go about diagnosing, and fixing this problem?

There's no smoke or sparks flying, and once it starts it runs just fine.

3 Answers
157,485

Bob answered 7 years ago

I am guessing that the starter solenoid is mounted on the starter on this vehicle and not up on the fender? If so, I would have a very close look at all the wiring associated with the battery and the solenoid. You are looking for corrosion at the terminals or corrosion that has intruded into the wire insulation. All connections must be clean and tight.

Mark helpful

Nathan answered 7 years ago

It's mounted up on the fender. What then? Still check the battery and solenoid wiring?

Mark helpful
157,485

Bob answered 7 years ago

Yeah, I would check the wiring first thing anytime you have an electrical issue. The solenoid electrically connects the big battery + cable to the big cable to the starter when starting the engine. Many of the aftermarket solenoids are of inferior quality when compared to the genuine Ford part. I am not sure however that Ford still makes a replacement part so I would recommend you try a different brand than you purchased before and replace it. Get one from Ford if you can. Just check all the wiring closely before buying any parts. Also make sure the battery is tested.

Mark helpful

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