1959 Studebaker Deluxe Starter Solenoid: A Comprehensive Guide
If your classic Studebaker clicks but won't start, this guide to the starter solenoid is for you.
- A single, loud click without the engine cranking is the classic symptom of a bad starter solenoid on your Studebaker.
- For this vehicle, the solenoid is a separate, easy-to-access part, making DIY replacement feasible and affordable.
- New aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition are the most practical and reliable source for a new replacement part.
- Always confirm your battery is fully charged before diagnosing the solenoid, as a weak battery causes a rapid clicking sound.
Signs of a Failing Starter Solenoid
A bad starter solenoid on a 1959 Studebaker Deluxe has several distinct symptoms. Paying attention to the sounds your car makes can help you diagnose the problem accurately.
- Single Loud Click, No Crank: This is the most common sign of a failing solenoid. When you turn the key, you hear one solid 'CLICK' from the engine bay, but the engine doesn't turn over. This usually means the solenoid is receiving power from the ignition but is failing to close the high-current contacts for the starter motor.
- No Sound at All: If you turn the key and hear nothing, the solenoid might be completely dead and not activating at all. Before blaming the solenoid, always check that your battery is fully charged and the terminals are clean.
- Intermittent Starting: The car starts fine one day but only clicks the next. This can happen when the internal contacts of the solenoid are worn or corroded, making the connection unreliable.
- Starter Keeps Running: In some cases, the solenoid can get stuck in the 'on' position, causing the starter motor to continue running even after the engine has started and you've released the key. This can cause serious damage to the starter and flywheel.
Is it the Solenoid or the Battery?
A rapid-fire clicking sound (click-click-click-click) is almost always a sign of a weak or dead battery, not a bad solenoid. The solenoid is trying to engage repeatedly but doesn't have enough power. Always test your battery first before replacing parts.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Solenoid
For a classic vehicle like a 1959 Studebaker, finding new original equipment (OEM) parts is nearly impossible. Your options are typically New Old Stock (NOS), used original parts, or new aftermarket reproductions. New aftermarket parts are often the most reliable and accessible choice.
Brand Spotlight: Standard Ignition
Standard Motor Products (Standard Ignition) is a well-established brand that produces replacement parts for a wide range of vehicles, including classics. Historically, the brand has a reputation for quality. Their solenoids are built with heavy-duty copper contacts and more copper windings to create a strong magnetic field and extend the part's life. For a 1959 Studebaker, a Standard Ignition solenoid is a solid, readily available replacement part that meets or exceeds the original specifications.
Typical Replacement Costs
Replacing the starter solenoid on a 1959 Studebaker is generally an affordable repair. On these older vehicles, the solenoid is usually a separate component mounted on the firewall, making it easier to access and replace than on modern cars.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Solenoid | $49.14 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $180 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $149.14 - $229.14 |
Pro Tip: Since this is a straightforward job, you can save on labor costs by doing it yourself. The replacement typically takes less than an hour with basic hand tools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I test my Studebaker's starter solenoid?
You can perform a simple test. With the car in park or neutral, have a friend turn the ignition key while you listen near the solenoid. A healthy solenoid will make a single, strong click. If it clicks but the engine doesn't crank, the solenoid's internal contacts may be bad. If there's no click, the solenoid may not be getting power or has failed completely. For a more definitive test, a multimeter can be used to check for 12 volts at the small signal terminal when the key is turned, and to check for voltage passing through the large terminals during cranking.
Is the starter solenoid the same as a starter relay?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but they can be different. A solenoid does two things: it acts as a relay (a switch) and it mechanically moves the starter gear. Some cars use a smaller, separate starter relay to send the low-current signal to the starter solenoid. On your 1959 Studebaker, the component you are replacing is the main starter solenoid.
Can I replace just the solenoid, or do I need a whole new starter?
On your 1959 Studebaker, the starter solenoid is almost certainly a separate part mounted on the firewall or inner fender, not directly on the starter motor itself. This is a major advantage, as you can replace just the faulty solenoid without needing to remove the entire starter assembly.
Are there any recalls or technical bulletins for the 1959 Studebaker Deluxe starter solenoid?
No, there are no official NHTSA recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) on record for the starter solenoid on a 1959 Studebaker Deluxe. This is common for vehicles of this era, as modern record-keeping systems were not in place.
Technical Specifications
Typically a 12-volt, 4-terminal, externally-mounted (firewall) solenoid.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.