David, Bench testing the starter and solenoid is relatively easy. You'll need a good high amperage 12V source (battery with jumper cables will do the job). There are 5 electrical connections leading from the starter solenoid, 2 large post, 2 small post and 1 pig tail lead. Clamp the positive jumper cable from you 12V power source to the small post that does not have the copper strip. Touch the ground lead from your power source to the starter body, (be prepared for a high current arc). You will hear the solenoid engage and see the starter drive gear move outward if the solenoid is working properly. "Happy Holiday's" from DMC Joe De Lorean Services / website: <deloreanservices.com> ----- Original Message ----- From: <Delorean17@xxxx> To: <dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxx> Sent: Monday, December 06, 1999 5:18 PM Subject: [DML] Testing starter Solenoid > Hello, > I took my starter in on my 81 DeLorean today because I can't get it to > work. (its been sitting for a year) The starter shop said its perfect. I > am going to do the starter update soon but I should still hear the starter > move a little. I am guessing it could be the starter solenoid. As long as > the starter is off I would like to see if the solenoid swings over and > engages. what is the easiest to check this? The battery is brand new. > someone once told me how to do this but I no longer have the email. > > Thanks > > David > vin#2496-still needs right quarter panel