710 Starter Problem

[Kathos]

I took the car to the Vintage Grand Prix this weekend. I had trouble leaving because when I turned the key, the starter made no noise. (A single faint click).

I started playing with the small spade connector on the starter solenoid and it made no difference. I loosened the terminal nut on the battery side of the solenoid (did not disconnect) nothing happened. As a began to loosen the nut on the starter side of the solenoid, I heard something snap back(key was not in ignition). 

I dont fully understand the mechanics of the starter but I am guessing it was the bendix disengaging, or something in the solenoid.

With this information, can you guess what happened? Wiring, solenoid, starter or all?

I understand how the starter and solenoid function as a unit, but I don't know whats happening internally.

Thanks

Edit: After I heard the noise, I tightened everything back up and had no issues starting the car

[datzenmike]

If working on the starter or removing it always remove the positive battery cable from the battery post first. Trust me...

 

 

Probably the solenoid. May have stuck. It's spring loaded to return to rest position. Two bolts and it's removable. You could take the starter out properly and examine both. Use jumper cables to connect it up and watch it operate. The solenoid does two things at the same time. It electrically connects the battery to the starter motor and through a lever, extends the starter gear out and engages the flywheel.

[Roadster-ka]

If this happens again, I would check the voltage to the small terminal("s") on the solenoid. Datsuns are known for poor older connections causing lack of voltage. Adding a starter relay is the best way to address this.

[racerx]

Have u taken it to AutoZone or prolly to get it check.