1992 RM won't turn over help please

[thechair95]

I recently picked up my roadmaster and it ran fine, and I drove it across country no problem.

I drove it somewhere and I came out to start it and it didn't even turn over. All the lights come on, but when you when turn the key it just clicks. There is this weird countdown from 30 that starts when you turn the key to start it. I don't really know what is wrong. There is this buzzing from the transmission shift brake interlock solenoid. I don't know if that is normal or not.

Every once and a while it did hesitate when starting up. However the problem was so intermittent I didn't pay much attention. Could the problems be connected?

I really like the car and need to fix it. Any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks.

 

[HotZ28]

What is the battery voltage when the car was sitting idle, then when trying to crank? Have you had the battery connections inspected & the battery load tested?

 

[thechair95]

That's what I thought too, but I already tried a battery from a friend's Impala and there was no change. I don't have a volt meter at the moment.

 

[bigredwagon]

Take a wrench, hammer, baseball bat, baby, whatever you got laying around. Crawl under the car and give the starter/selonoid a few good raps. Sounds stupid but it has worked many times throughout the years, plus it's free and easy. If that does nothing you might think about replacing the starter, or at least take it off and have it tested.

 

[thechair95]

I banged on the starter with a hammer and IT STARTED! Something so simple, but it worked. Thanks

 

[robert graham]

Time for a new/rebuilt starter...not a lot of money or a very difficult or lengthy job. Auto-Zone, Advanced Auto, others, all carry these "remanufactured" starters....

 

[bigredwagon]

That's great man. Nice when a simple solution works out.
Still might think about having that starter checked out though.