Electrical Short that isn't Blowing a Fuse

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stamp11127

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Since you have the same voltage at the starter that you have at the battery, there is nothing wrong with the starter circuit. The ground side also checks out with the .1v.

This indicates a problem with the solenoid mounted on the starter if it is still getting hot.

Your meter can handle 10A current for a short period. You may consider seeing how much is being drawn by connecting the meter in series with one of the battery posts and clamp. Only leave it connected long enough to get a reading. If the draw is more than 10A you will probably blow the internal fuse.

Have you double checked the voltage on the small wire to the solenoid mounted on the firewall? You need to verify the readings, should be 0 until the ign switch is in start.
 
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Tim Skinner

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well I checked to small wire going to the when the switch is off and it's reading 8.47v . it's hot even when the key is not in the vehicle
 

stamp11127

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Usual culprit is the ignition switch.

Disconnect one battery cable, leave the small wire that you are reading the 8.47v disconnected at the solenoid and touch the battery clamp to the post. Note if there is a change in the amount of spark - you will have some. See if the solenoid on the starter is still getting warm/hot.
 
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Tim Skinner

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when I connected the battery to the post leaving the small wire unpluged I get the same amount of spark and the solenoid isn't getting hot - I was thinking of taking the starter out and bench testing it to see if is working or if it burned out. If the the ignition switch shorted out would it cause this type of problem
 

stamp11127

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You can test the starter in place. Jump the two big studs on the firewall solenoid with a junk screwdriver. Make sure trans is in park and key out of ignition switch.
Just need to blip the starter initially. If it tries to turn the engine you can run it longer.
 

stamp11127

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What we are dealing with doesn't deal with negative voltage so the -.31v is nonsense. Did you try jumping / shorting the two studs?
 
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