First it wouldn't start....now it won't stop starting.

[amt230]

Ironically, after a couple months of struggling through starting issues, which included all new glow plugs, a new salt shaker indicator, a new battery, and a new neutral safety switch, my car now starts.

But, now after I start it up, the starter (which is only a few years old) won't stop running. The car starts and after I release the gorilla knob I hear a whining noise, that keeps on even though the engine is running steadily. Sometimes it stops after 20-30 seconds, but other times it keeps running for minutes on end, even if I put the car in gear and start driving.

And, if I'm just quickly moving the car, I then can't turn it off, because even if I push in the gorilla knob the starter keeps running struggling to keep the engine moving.

After months of trying in vain to get my car to start, I've definitely learned to be careful what I wish for.

I have no idea where to begin with this. Thoughts? Thanks!

[meltedpanda]

sounds like the kick out gear is stuck or selinoid bad, pull the small wire with the rubber boot off the solinoid/starter relay to test OR your ignition switch could be stuck/sticking, \
Check your grounds for shorts, retrace your wiring

[amt230]

Let me see if I understand this correctly, since I've never really messed with the starter...

So, you're suggesting that I start it, and while the starter is still running pull the small wire with rubber boot off - if it stops, then its likely the starter itself?

Or it could be the ignition switch sticking? What do you mean by ignition switch? And where would it be sticking?

Thanks!

[meltedpanda]

the key way ( ignition ) could be the issue , start there, try jiggling the key or move it slightly counterclockwise if no luck then yes on the wire, if the selinoid is staying engaged then it wont tell the starter to stop. The solenoid, pushes the bendix out, engaging the starter gear with the flywheel or flex plate and turning the gear.

Check for shorts as well

[amt230]

Since this is one of the older diesels with the gorilla knob, I assume the issue would be with that pull knob and not the key, no? My understanding is that that item is a very simple mechanical switch, so I don't know how it could get out of whack in this way based on how its operating. Thanks for your guidance!

[meltedpanda]

yes I know, but the knob does have a connection to the start circuit, either by cable ( to the key way) or to the starter ( electricle) . I just dont recall at the moment. I will try and check my books tonight