I have recently been experiencing problems with starting my 1987 RX-7 (non-turbo manual transmission). When trying to start the car I get nothing from the starter. The battery is fairly new and all other electronics seem to be working okay (lights are bright, etc.). I hear the relays kicking in, and I checked the interlock switch connected to the clutch pedal. I removed the starter and bench tested it, and it seem to work fine. I also tested the voltage to the starter solenoid to no avail. So, I re-installed the starter and it worked fine for 2 days and then it crapped out again. This time I checked the voltages and ground with the starter in place and they were okay. I was able to bang the starter and get it to work, but not consistently, so I assumed it was a starter problem. I pulled the starter and bench tested it again and it worked flawlessly. So now I suspected a wiring or ground problem. I re-installed the starter again and it worked for about a dozen starts. This time when it crapped out I tested the voltages/grounds with the starter in place again. I ran 12V from the directly from the battery to the solenoid lead, but the solenoid did not kick in. I got sparks, but no solenoid action. Hitting the starter with my ratchet got it to work. I removed the starter and tested it for a 3rd time. It worked flawlessly. Any ideas???

Fulton

 

Replace it It is having the ol' bang it and it works problem. It's like the proverbial flashlight that works when you bang on it.

 

could be a dodgy connection between the solonoid and the starter - knocking it might have helped. Try running a lead straight to the starter to see if it starts, don't use the wiring that it's connected with though - use a fresh bit of wire.
Does the starter make any noise at all? (like a faint buzzing) If it does, get some new carbon brushes.

 

actually i have the same problem and am trying to figure out a solution. cause push starting is getting mighty annoying

 

I got one that works if you anyone wants it. $20 shipped to your door.