Practically Classics Forum

Ok, so I've just had an issue with my 2003 Grand Cherokee 2.7 diesel Jeep refusing to turn over. Traced it to the starter which then works if you give it a good tap or two.

Normally I'd be straight in for an exchange starter or new one, but up to now I've only found one on Ebay at just shy of 300 quid

It is a starter with solenoid riding piggyback, thoughts on likely fault welcome, and thoughts on home repair of the unit even more welcome.

Give me some good news....please

First thought would be brushes.

Take it apart, clean up the commutator and see what the brushes are like. Either get some new ones or fashion some from a lump of larger brush carbon, and bob's your uncle.

Cheap too, usually.

Other thought would be contacts on the solenoid - again, take apart, clean up and re-assemble, usual score.

All the best with it mate

Cheers Luxo, will get it off and give it a try.

Firstly reach for the aerosol of switch cleaner! Only if that doesn't work start dismantling. Even if you find you can't do it yourself, don't get too stressed by only finding them on the interweb for £300.....in the first instance I would ask in my local decent spares shop- I got a new starter for my Vitesse in next day for £30 exchange in the little parts place down the road- they might only have modern commonly needed stuff on the shelf but they have zillions of application catalogues. Failing that most towns have an auto-electrical place who will be able to sort it for you for less than £300!