I am almost certain my car's(2002 Eclipse RG/GS) starter is bad. I replaced the battery, and the alternator is holding charge, the belt is on tightly. The ignition solenoid is clicking on when I turn the key, but the car won't start at all unless i use a "push/clutch" start method.

First thing's first, do you think that this means a starter problem?

Second, if it is, I have been told of a trick that you can tap the starter with a hammer a couple of times and it should start. Where is the starter located and exactly how do I do this method.

Thanks,
Nick

Replied.

First: Maybe.

Second: Its sometimes easier to get a crow bar or something, stick it down from up top till you hit the starter, then hit the crow bar with a hammer.

Check your clutch fluid. Bleed the lines. If you're clutch isn't disengaging all the way, the computer will not let you start the car.

Ik this bc i had the same prob haha

I used a 2x4 on my oldsmobile.
Give it a good bump.

Hey man this same kinda thing happened to me. Im in a 97 eclipse GST im assuming its stic right?? If so I know its kinda ghetto but try turning the key again and again rapidly... I too had this problem for about 6 months untill I finally decided to get a new starter " hey it worked" for a couple of weeks then started to look at the cables in the engine bay. The ones that run off the battery posts and ended up finding the alternator cables bald in one spot"causing somekind of short"

just save time get a new starter cuz eventully it will go completly out

If I read his last email correct, the car is running again.

I beat it with a hammer, it runs.

I am getting the starter from a junkyard thursday($35), and having my bro-in-law put it in(free).


Well not really free. I am buying him a sega dreamcast. Its the only system left of the classics that he hasn't collected

Dude, two bolts, one connection, pull.

Reverse process.

Installed.

Starters are quite possibly the easiest thing to instal in a car next to the horn or a battery..... It doesn't take a mechanical whiz to replace;em.....

Ummm no. I got my starter replaced at pep boyz because when i saw where it was, i about shat myself. You have to take the craddle off for the gst and gsx

Uhh look at what he is driving.

At most theres four more bolts on the stabilizer bracket that attaches to the transmission.

The car is already at his house... why wouldn't i just have him do it. I have helped him god knows how many times do work on his SI

Now the truth comes out!!!