Auto Parts: 1996 Chevy Tahoe Starter Problems, starter solenoid, chevy tahoe

Question
QUESTION: Hi! I just came back from a 9 day vacation last week. During this time, my 1996 Chevy Tahoe (approx 170k miles) was not run and did not move out of its parking spot. The weather here in new york has been below freezing temperatures. When I returned home sunday night i started the truck for about 15 seconds. Took a few times to start, but eventually did. Since then, I have not been able to start it. When I turn the key all I hear is a clicking in the ignition. The interior lights and head lights all work fine. I tried jumping the vehicle, but this did not work either. Any tips?


ANSWER: Hi,
Try pouring a quart of HOT water over the starter solenoid. There is probably a thin film of ICE built-up inside the housing. Starting the vehicle COLD and only allowing it to semi-warm may have caused condensation to build and then freeze in the solenoid housing stopping the unit from making electrical contact. If the HOT water fixes the starting issue, you may wish to take the vehicle for a nice ride or let it idle for a few hours to evaporate the water or you'll only run into this problem several more times until you do. The solenoid is sealed except for a small weep hole slightly bigger than the head of a pin to vent from so even an 1/8oz of water could take some time to boil out of that hole.
Thanks for the question, I hope this information helps you.
Kb

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Ok I will try that out today. Thanks. I don't mean to sound stupid, but where is the solenoid located?

Answer
Hi,
Sorry, sometimes I assume people can read my mind. The solenoid is mounted right on top of your starter and you should have no trouble locating it if you follow the POSITIVE battery lead from the battery to the top of the starter solenoid where it bolts on. Also, I forgot to mention that If the HOT water does not immediately fix your problem, try reaching through the passenger-side wheel well and tapping lightly the starter/starter solenoid with a small hammer or some other small piece of metal using care not to contact any of the cables/wires. sometimes small particals of rust can cause that same problem.
Kb