[Mgs] Starter freezing up on cold days

[Bob Donahue]

I use my MGB as a daily driver. It's been a reliable starter-upper the last 
couple winters even below zero. But this winter the starter seems to 'freeze 
up' when it's cold. We've had cycles of rain followed by plummeting 
temperatures lately. Here's how the starter acts:

Turn key to starter position - Below freezing, not a peep out of the 
starter, but the solenoid is drawing normal current. Above freezing, no 
problem.

Hold key on starter position - If it's not too far below freezing, the 
starter will suddenly take off after 10 to 30 seconds. If the temperature is 
in the teens or colder, I have to use a hair dryer on the starter.

Does this sound like water in the starter solenoid? Is it a common problem 
on MGBs?

BTW, this car isn't garaged and is driven in the rain.

Bob Donahue (Still Stuck in the '50s)
Email - bobmgtd at insightbb.com
Cars:       52 MGTD - #17639
               71 MGB - #GHN5UB254361
Member:  NEMGTR #11470
               NAMGBR # 7-3336
               Hoosier MGB Club
               Olde Octagons of Indiana