[TR] [British-cars] Lucas Starter Squeal

[Randall]

> Is it possible that the 
> solenoid is
> sucking the power along the way?

"In an infinite universe, all things are possible."

However, I think it much more likely that your mechanic is right and the
starter needs service.  There are several faults which can cause the
symptoms you describe, including a worn-out brush or a worn-out bushing.
Generally such things are obvious once the starter is disassembled, so that
would be my next step.

If the solenoid is the problem, it is going to be hot as blazes within a few
seconds of cranking the engine until it won't turn any more.  But it will be
hot even if the starter is to blame, so that is not a reliable test.  When
my early TR3A starter failed with similar symptoms, the solenoid was
literally smoking, but continued to work after the starter was repaired.

If you don't care to disassemble or service the starter yourself, any "auto
electric" shop should be able to handle it.  There is nothing particularly
"British" about it (except the fasteners).  And in general they are quite a
bit cheaper than buying a rebuilt unit from one of the usual LBC suppliers
(depending somewhat of course on what is wrong with your unit).

-- Randall