(Home) Starter solenoid

I read the earlier threads about amperage drop.My townace has a similiar problem. I turn the ignition and the starter just clicks.Sometimes starts sometimes doesn't.A new battery didn't help.Now it won't start.Cleaned the battery terminals, but still won't start. I looked at the starter.I took off the cable and there is just a stud sticking out.Where are is the solenoid?I'd like to try cleaning or replacing it.
I looked at the picture that Dave linked to his answer ,but can't figure out how to get to the solenoid.Sorry for being so dense.If anyone out there could help out with an answer I'd be really glad.And I'll buy you a pint if you ever get to Japan.(I'm an ex-pat) - (#2505) Douglas, 11 Mar 02

Douglas. The solenoid housing is part of the starter and the best way to clean the internal contacts/switch is by removing the starter. The starter comes away very easily and the whole job could take less than a couple of hours. Your new battery will have very clean terminals but, the corroded solenoid contacts are, I think, providing too much resistance for effective current flow. If you wished, I could email you a scan of the starter & solenoid drawing from the repair manual. - (#2506) John Davis, 11 Mar 02

Douglas, sometimes the problem can be in the wiring, rather than the solenoid. If you reach under the car and disconnect the spade terminal going to the starter, and touch it to the main stud, the starter should engage. If it does, it's a wiring fault. If not, it.s the solenoid contacts. HTH - (#2507) david miller, 11 Mar 02

Thank you everyone!!!
I bought the battery 1 year ago,and it didn't clear up the problem.
Lately ,it got worse so I consulted this board. Found out about the amperage drop problem.Thanks!!Thought it was a glow plug thing or whatever,as I'm a dope about car repair. I work on my car,because I don't have the cash to pay a shop!
Cleaned up the connection to the starter and she starts!!
OHHHHHHH YES!!!
Was getting ready to pull the starter and have a go at taking it apart,but everything looks O.K. now...for now,,
Thanks again for the info.
You guys are my god!!
Just finished an ice cold Kirin Lager and long distance toasted you all.
Cheers,
Doug McDowall - (#2508) Douglas, 11 Mar 02