Starter Won't Shut Off
 

My AV8 with '51 Merc in it. Been sitting for a couple weeks so I went to start and run it for a while. After the 2nd try to get it started, I let go of the key and it kept turning the engine over. Turned the switch off and still turning (not running). Had to pull a battery cable. Touched the cable to bat and still did the same. My first thought is the starter relay/solenoid is stuck. Pulled it and checked with a test light across the cable terminals and nothing. Has a universal ignition switch. This car has been run very little since built and everything in the electrical system was new. What else to check?

Re: Starter Won't Shut Off
 

I'd suspect the solenoid regardless. It might be more prone to stick with the heavy amperage of the starter. If it does it again, try whacking the starter with a soft faced hammer. if it unsticks at least you've isolated the cause.

Assuming it was all a-ok before the layup you ought to be able to rule out any wiring issues.

Mart.

Re: Starter Won't Shut Off
 

If you remove the small wire to selinodse, then short to batt and see if it stops .
If it stops work back to wire to ign switch check for shorted wire.

Re: Starter Won't Shut Off
 

The only way the starter is receiving power is if the starter solenoid is energized, either by being stuck or being externally activated. Being wired to a key switch I assume it is a solenoid that requires power and is wired for 12v. If so, then either the solenoid is sticking or there is power feeding the solenoid even with the switch off.

Re: Starter Won't Shut Off
 

Decided to buy a new starter solenoid. Went to NAPA and asked if they had any American made ones. Guy at the counter says they don't have any way to tell. So I bought one anyway and put it in. Started it up with no problems. Hope it lasts longer than the first one.