i'm new to this forum, and my question is how do i get a 66 8cyl 289 to start (turn over)? I replaced the selinoid and bought a new battery, but the car sounds like the starter is grinding. I know this isn't safe but, my father used a jumper cable on the battery and selinoid to get it started. I got a better response by doing this, rather than just turning the key. Could someone assist me in getting my stang started. i have fuel and oil in also.

 

Welcome JAH!!

Did the starter grind when you jumped the solenoid?

This info should be helpfull in diagnosis.

 

How long has it been since it was started , are all the wires cnnected corectly , are they all tight

 

yes, the starter did grind. what is my next step? thanks

 

it was started, maybe about two months ago. and yes i believe all the wires are connected right and tight. thanks.

 

If the starter is grinding regardless of method employed (jumper or key), The first thing I would do is to replace the starterbefore it damages the flywheel.

With the starter out you will want to closely inspect the fly/flex wheel for damage to the ring gear. (turn the engine to check all the way around)

If this all checks out install the new starter and this may fix your issue in total.

The good news is that you can get a starter for about $30.00.

You also need to make sure that all of your big cables and big cable connections are serviceable, clean, and big enough for the job.

Take all connections loose and clean them well with a wire brush. Don't forget the grounds, they are of equal importance to the "hot side".

Keep in mind that most replacement cables sold at AutoZone type stores suck. They are often undersized with substandard conductors, and sh*tty connections at the ends of the cables. Often when one of these cables looks good, it is not gooddue to poor end terminal connections.

IMO the negative cable should run directly to the engine block, with another cable from this termination point to the frame. The bottom bell housing bolt closest to the starter or one of the starter bolts is the best place to ground.

 

Good comment JMD about the engine ground. Batt to block to frame or Batt to frame to block it doesen't matter. Just make sure all three are tied together electrically with appropriate sized cables. I would alternately suggest that the ground cables beplaced to initially from the batt neg term to to the bolt hole in the block just below the exh. manifold andfrom there to the chassis side of the motor mounts.

JAH, what exactly do you mean by "grinding"? the starter is engaged with a horrific noise (grinding) or the starter just turns the engine over and over without starting (cranking)?

 

Check your regulator plug coming from the alternator and make sure its plugged in all the way. If your starter is clicking then its not getting enough juice or no juice at all.

 

thank u all for ur input. sorry it took so long to reply. i haven't had the chance to starter yet, but jlg2002, yes the starter grinds. the engine turned over the other day, but just cut off 3 seconds later. after I check the starter i will back to you all. JMD, thank u for the advice. I will employ these methods and reply to u with good or bad news.

 

69 you have a very good point.He could be hearing is voltage regulator cuz my mine made a horrific sound when it went bad or when the solenoid went bad that made a grinding sound too.Especially with the starter stopping..sounds like a possibility