[urq] Brake servo questions 83 UrQ

[Buchholz, Steven]

... there was a TSB on this ... I know I've written extensive responses
on this in the past ... which should be in the archives.  Basically as
the parts (starter, solenoid, starter switch, connectors & wiring) age
the voltage applied to the starter degrades to the point where the
solenoid will not pull in when starting ... especially if the starter is
hot.  The relay is a way to minimize the requirements on the starter
switch and wiring, as it takes a lot less current to energize a relay
coil as compared to a solenoid.  The other advantage is that you can get
a solid 12V supply right there at the starter motor.  My recommendation
on this sort of thing is to include a starter load reduction relay with
the headlight relays ... and build the thing into a sealed enclosure
under the hood (my favorite is the box that an ABS controller is in.

All that said, IME a rebuilt starter is usually all it takes to cure a
starter engagement problem ... the relay simply buys you more time until
the replacement needs to be replaced ... 

If your relay is melted you might want to redo the wiring to allow it to
live in an area that is a bit cooler ... but remember that if you pull a
supply wire from the starter motor or alternator you should fuse the
line just in case something bad happens.

Steve B
San Jose, CA (USA)
> 
> Also whats the deal with the starter solenoid?  Looks like somebody 
> added a relay prior to the starter solenoid?  It has since melted, I 
> assume do to the relation of the exhaust manifold.