40's 346 engine starter wiring question.

[gary griffin]

   We have a little problem with identifying which of the various wires go to which terminal on the starter.

   One of the problems with restoring an old car and installing a new wiring harness is at the end there is a lack of information especially if several people are involved.

   A diagram or a photo showing the correct hook would be appreciated. The 1942 manual gives information on refurbishing the starter but it assumes you will be putting it back in the next day and the same person will be doing the work because there are no diagrams.

   Ya gotta love this forum, so many members sharing their knowledge for us all to learn.

    Thanks in advance

[Steve Passmore]

Apart from the very large battery cable which is self explanatory the main terminal also has the next thickest wire attached to it which is from the ammeter, then you have two smaller diameter cables attached to the relay terminals on top the solenoid, I don't think it matters which way round these go as one is from the start button and the other is to ground usually to the regulator or generator so the ground brakes as soon as the engines running.  There may be slight differences between the years but generally all the same.  Did your new loom not have instructions?

[Bill Ingler #7799]

In addition to what Steve has said, here is a diagram showing your connections. Notice that the wire from the starter to the solenod in the wiring diagram is eliminated on hydra-matic equipped cars since there is the addition of the neutral safety switch. The picture is from my 47 starter which should be the same as your 42.    Bill