Juturna67

The thread title pretty much says it all. What is this part called and what is it used for?

BuckeyeDemon

that's a starter relay and it's basically used to pass the high current to your starter.

andrewmp6

And 90% of the time when the car won't start that is the reason.

Juturna67

Thanks for the replies. Can you guys recommend me a good online vendor please?

Jonk67

Also called a starter solenoid. You can get them at any local parts store. I like O'reillys because they can get me the Standard or BWD brand next day no charge. The BWD version usually has copper posts/contacts vs. the cheap tin used in most cheap brands like 'Wells'.
Jon

andrewmp6

Yeah any auto parts store will carry it they was used on trucks tell the 80s its a common part.

mmaki

It is also the part that allows the car to be stolen in 10 seconds flat (not that it would be too much harder with a starter mounted solenoid but at least the thief would have to bend over and maybe get his hands dirty)

mortman

@mmaki, thats the exact reason I relocated mine, if and when it goes out it will take 2 hours to pull rather that that 3 min. just saying....

urban_cowboy

I have gone through 2 or 3 over the years. The last one I got from Napa was has been a cut above the ones from Autozone and Advanced Auto. I am sure NPD carries them if you are super remote and want to mail order.