[68elkyss396]

I'm having problems with the starter on my Elky big block. sometimes it starts fine, other times I just hear a click from the solenoid. When I cycle the key and try again, it may just click again. It sometimes will do that 6 or 8 times before the starter finally catches. Sometimes I can start it several times with no problems. The engine runs fine (approx 2000 miles on overhaul), starter is new, new 700CCA battery. Could this be something as simple as a wiring issue?

 

[nolimitpkr]

I'm having problems with the starter on my Elky big block. sometimes it starts fine, other times I just hear a click from the solenoid. When I cycle the key and try again, it may just click again. It sometimes will do that 6 or 8 times before the starter finally catches. Sometimes I can start it several times with no problems. The engine runs fine (approx 2000 miles on overhaul), starter is new, new 700CCA battery. Could this be something as simple as a wiring issue?

Is the battery grounded to the block??? Check all your grounds, thats where I usually start with this type of symptom....

 

[dpvoiceguy]

My first thought was bad ground, like Brian mentioned. When that didn't solve my problem I looked a little deeper and the culprit was the ignition switch under the dash, mounted to the top of the column. I don't know if this existed in '68 though.
Same symptom, easy fix, cheap part at the local parts store. Good luck in your hunt!

 

[TooLgasm]

Steve, you got headers on that Elky? My old 68 SS 396 used to go through starters so fast that I kept a spare in the trunk! Any how, I was young and did not realize that all I had to do was install some heat shielding around the starter. Once I did that it never happened again.

Good luck!

Brian