LufMyRX7

Starter turns very well. Battery power is fresh. Engine does not engage. Thought something like solenoid was shot but when I put it in 1st gear or reverse and turn key it jumps so it doesn't sound like solenoid. What could be wrong?

mazdaverx713b

iTrader: (91)

so.. you are not pushing in the clutch and turning the key.... welll thats no good for the motor. anyhow, have you checked your battery cables for corrosion? possibly the wire on the starter is bad or is not hooked up. it happens. they like to fall off. possibly a ground from the neg cable to the body. there are 2 grounding points for it. one is on the strut tower and the other has a loop, just perfect for a bolt. i ground that end to one of my bellhousing bolts.

Rx7carl

If the car jumps in gear, then the starter is engaging the flywheel, which means the engine should turn. Are you POSITIVE the engine isint turning? If its not you must have either sheared the key in the flywheel or the eshaft is broken.

FD Racer

operate the starter with the hood up, do the drive belts turn?
if they don't and it still jumps while starting in gear with no clutch, then Rx7carl is right on the money.