<html><div>Thanks John and Randall.</div>
<div>I figured there was some way it was overdriving the solenoid. I didn't think it would be the amps because batteries can provide plenty of them.</div>
<div>Wasn't aware that the voltage regulation was suspect!</div>
<div> </div>
<div>I WAS very careful to not cook the starter - those are expensive.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>I think I will just use a car battery & cables for further testing.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>MB</div>
<div><br><br>---------- Original Message ----------<br>From: "Randall" <TR3driver@ca.rr.com><br>To: "'Matt'" <mbarre@juno.com>, <shop-talk@autox.team.net><br>Subject: RE: [Shop-talk] Solenoid question<br>Date: Sun, 25 Sep 2016 15:46:41 -0700<br><br>> I was doing most of the cranking with power from my 12<br>> volt battery charger/starter set to the starting/225A setting. <br><br>Most of those type of units have really poor voltage regulation, open<br>circuit voltage on the 'Start' setting may be as high as 24v or more!<br><br>My guess is the high voltage (possibly in the form of a huge inrush current<br>when the solenoid contacts close) is what killed the solenoid.<br><br>You can still use the charger, just leave the battery in the circuit.<br>Probably best to turn the charger down, and then give the starter a rest<br>when the battery gets tired; as the starter will also have a very limited<br>duty cycle.<br><br>-- Randall</p></html>