Volkswagen: 1979 VW Super Beetle Convertible, starter solenoid, starter problem

Question
I recently purchased a 1979 VW Super Beetle Convertible.  I drove it home, and drove it around quiet a bit..It seems to be in great shape and runs well.  I took it to work today and I stopped.  I went back to start the car and nothing happened.  I know the battery is ok, the radio works, the buzzer comes on, or at least I think the battery is ok.  The starter doesn't even turn over.  No clicking nothing but a electric kinda hum.  I dont hold it in that position for long. So when it happened the first time, I push started it and started to drive it home. As i was going down the highway I turned the ignition off and started with the ignition.. Started fine... I did this in case i had to pop the clutch to get it started.  I got it home and it started fine.  I then made sure the battery terminals were clean and tight, and they were.  Do you have a suggestion on what might cause this issue?

Answer
Phil,

It could be resistance in the wires from age.  Depending on your location, heat and degradation of the wires contribute to this.

The proper way to fix this:

1) Get a new ignition switch (electrical side only)
2) Check resistance from switch to starter solenoid
3) Check battery

The work-around:

They sell 'hot start' kits which are designed to bypass this long run of old wire from the ignition switch to the rear of the car#   It does not change the way the car starts/runs, but does eliminate the intermittent starter problem and is easy to install#

Here is the link to the part: it is $19.95

www.wolfsburgwest.com

Type 'relay' in search and select 'hard start relay'