Accord starter problem

[tommyjj]

Hi guys, I;m just throwing this one out there because I'm all out of ideas.

I've got a 1995 Accord 2.2 Auto that I bought ages ago as a runaround, but it's had a starting problem pretty much since I got it so hasn't been used. I've been attempting to sort the problem so I can sell it, as I have inherited my wife's much newer car.

The issue was that it just sounded totally dead when turning the ignition key - I could hear the fuel pump but there was nothing when turning the key- no clicks or anything.

I spent ages testing various wires but couldn't find the problem, so I took the starter off with the intention of fitting a new one.

I've had three starters sent to be now from various companies, some from ebay - all the wrong unit.

I've tested the old solenoid which seems to work fine, so I swapped out one of the new motors (same as the original) but kept the original mounting plate, pinion and engaging mechanism - which were all slightly different on the replacements

After refitting, the starter spins but it seems it's not engaging with the flywheel at all.

Could a solenoid work ok when tested but not have enough oomph when fitted? I thought they just worked or didn't work. Battery tests ok but could a low batt cause that?

Whenever I've tried to start a car with a low battery before you can hear the solenoid trying to click but the starter motor doesn't turn at all.

I've also never had an automatic before, so don't know whether low batt causes different symptoms than on a manual - can't imagine why tho

Any help greatly appreciated