2003 RX-1 starter / solenoid question

[KbxSrx]

I brought my 03 RX-1 home today, and when you turn the key (yes the kill switch is up) with a battery charger on 40A boost nothing happens, other than the fuel/oil pumps firing.
Connecting directly to the battery, bypassing everything gets the starter to roll, but that is the only way. I searched, and see that there is a solenoid that could be the culprit, but how do you test it? Is it a matter of checking every wire?
I have to apologize in advance, I haven't touched a sled in 3 years, and never did anything with the starter.

Any help would be greatly apppreciated.

 

[Len Todd]

First you need a fully charged battery. Trying to start it with a bad battery and jumping it, will not work. In fact, you could actually destroy some other very expensive electrical components jumping it, with a dead battery.

Once you have a fully charged battery, then give it a try. Maybe add a little gas directly in the carb throats, once you get it rolling over.

If it does not run correctly once you get it firing, you probably have to remove and clean the carbs. Use fresh gas. If you have 3 year old gas in there, drain all of it, including the tank, lines and carbs.

 

[RedRocket]

Check under the tool box for a set of wires that can rub against the frame and short out. Also, the starter relay is probably what you are thinking of so check that too.

Here are the pages from the manual on how to check it: (click thumbnails for larger images)

 

[KbxSrx]

I ended up changing out the solenoid, and put a different starter on.
I am back in business! Thanks guys.