Starting Problems

[Texasdoc]

Doesn't sound like heat if it doesn't work first thing in the morning or if it starts right up again right after the jump. Although, adding jumper cables makes it sound like it is a battery connection issue. Make sure your block is grounded. You can even add a ground strap from the starter mounting bolts to the frame. If you have a faulty ground somewhere, that could make it an intermittent problem.

Sometimes you have a dead spot in the starter coil. Try rolling the car just a bit (1mph) then let out the clutch with it in gear. See if it starts then. Not sure why this works since it doesn't rotate the starter coils, but my buddys does this and it works. Or... you can try banging the starter with a hammer - the vibrations can move the starter coils ever so slightly - enough to create the magnetic field to engage the starter. If this works, you likely need a new starter.

If you have a Ford style starter, make sure the solenoid is getting 12v+ from the battery and a 12v signal from the starter circuit. Then make sure the starter is getting 12v from the solenoid (make sure to disable the ignition so the car doesn't start while you are testing).

If you have a GM style starter (solenoid attached to the starter) it is easier to test as all the parts are in the same location by the starter. Still, the same applies. Make sure you are getting 12v to the battery terminal and 12v to the solenoid terminal when the key is twisted.

With either type, you should hear the click of the solenoid when you turn the key/push the start button. If you hear the click, it is likely the starter or the wiring from the solenoid to the starter (Ford style), or battery supply to the starter (GM style). If no click, the signal from the key to the solenoid is getting interrupted.