Chrysler Repair: 97 grand caravan 3.8L starter moter, solenoid switch, starter moter

Question
car won't start.  it's been hard to start.  for several weeks if we click the lock and unlock a few times then it would start.  I bought this car used and was told they had recently replaced the computer.  not long after I purchased it the door locks would lock and unlock at odd times.  the rear hatch won't open.  I hear a loud click when I try to start the car.  we tried taking the motor out to have it tested but after taking out 2 screws the motor will wobble slightly but won't come out.  is there another screw?

thanks, Olaf

Answer
Hi Olaf,
Yes, there are three screws on the motor so look around the rim of the motor for the other one. Disconnect the wires from the motor before removing. And notice the spacer between trans mounting housing and starter motor so you are sure to put it back in. The loud click is probably the starter motor solenoid switch, which is a good sign that at least the wiring to the motor from the ignition key is good.
IF the battery is charged and not nearing the end of its life then the starter motor itself is the problem. But before removing the motor, maybe try charging the battery or jump starting from another good battery/vehicle just to be sure that the starter motor is bad. You might try tapping on the side of the motor while a helper turns the key in order jog the brushes, in order to get it to start and run it for a while to recharge the battery. If none of the tricks get the motor to crank the engine then remove and rebuild the starter motor.
On the other aspects, there are two computers. Which one was replaced before you bought it, engine or body? The locking and unlocking was probably due to a door latch that wasn't securing a door tightly enough so it was falsely trying to lock the door because you were driving the van, this as a safety feature of the door lock system. The best way to avoid a hassle with the theft system is to never use it. ONLY use the mechanical push buttons to secure the doors before you leave. Don't lock doors with the power door switches, the door keys, or a remote if you have one.
Roland
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