Starter wires melting !!

[paudie]

I got my FMD up and running lights all done etc. I've bought and fitted a new wire loom . My problem is my starter ! .when I push on the starter leaver the two heavy red wires on the starter switch gets red hot melts then smoke etc. so you get the picture .The solenoid is new the starter spins when I join both red starter wires, but the starter don't engage, what tests can I do to check with a volt meter etc to see is it the starter or wiring? Can ye help guys ?
Paudie

[Brian]

If you mean the two wires that go to the switch on the top of the starter there should be nothing in the circuit that would cause your problem. One wire comes from the ignition switch to the starter switch, the other goes from the starter switch to the small tag on the solenoid.

If you connect the two together and the starter spins under no load, you may have connected the wire onto the solenoid in such a way that you are drawing the starter motor current through the two red wires.

The starter should turn if you connect the two wires together but only if the solenoid clicks in.

[paudie]

thanks Brian, that sounds like it maybe the problem I'll be able to check it tomorrow night thanks again for your input
Paudie .

[paudie]

Brian your a genius . I had replaced the original solenoid with the modern cheaper square type. You see I bought a new wire loom and the red wire for the solenoid had a ring on it ,to connect to the old style solenoid. So I joined it to one of the heavy Spurs on the new type solenoid . So a quick snip fitted a female spade and refitted it to the small spur as instructed and the starter worked perfectly . A quick allalua and God bless Google and brian of course and away I went for a spin. Thanks again lads !!

[Brian]

You are welcome!