Volvo PV444 wins 1957 Petit Lemans at Lime Rock!

[blueosprey90]

I was finally able to get the starter to work!.

I took the battery out of the car and tested the original starter that had had the mechanical solenoid failure last November. With a direct wire (thick, probably a #10 gauge) and firm connection from the solenoid to the battery, the starter spun up every time.

So I returned the battery to the car and used the same direct test wire (no switch) from the solenoid to the battery. Spare starter in the car. I went for broke and the car started. Tested several times and seemed to start on que.

So I reconnected the push button, under the dash start switch, and with a firm press of the button, that too seemed to work. Of course, by then the car was fully warmed up and it was also about 60 degrees outside.

I think my problem was twofold. My under the hood bump start button was not working consistently; and when I used the under the dash start button, I had weak connections. Perhaps I was spinning for too long and that is why the fuse blew.

In any event, it seems to be working for now.