Classic/Antique Car Repair: 87 xj6 v6 none start, solenoid starter, starter solenoid

Question
My friend just bought the car. he is experiencing an intermittent problem.  Electrical system works, but there is no ignition, no crank.  After it sits for a while, it may start again.  My thinking may be the ignition switch, park switch or other safety device.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Dan,
Each of those are possible but when you have no crank (I take it you mean the starter does not operate) Check the relay on the firewall under the hood. It should be the larger one. Put your finger on it when someone goes to the start position, you should feel it "Click". If so, probe the large wire (white w/ red tracer) with a test light when the start position is selected. If you feel it "click" and the test light lights but no starter action, you have either a starter solenoid, starter or cable connection problem. If you feel it "click" and the test light don't light then it is the relay. (the relay is usually the larger metal one) If the relay is at fault try hitting it with a screwdriver handle or plastic hammer when the key is in the start position, If it starts then it for sure is the relay. Sometimes this shock treatment will make it operate for some time afterward.

The neutral / park switch can cause the relay not to operate as can the ignition switch. All testing can be done at the relay, if you need a diagram of the relay for those tests let me know.

I hope this helps,
Howard