I replaced the alternator on my TV recently. Before starting it for the first time with the new alternator, I made sure the battery was fully charged and had the cranking amps tested as well. It started right up with no problem the first time. Then the next day, I got a funny noise when I turned the key to start it - sort of a cross between buzzing and clicking, not very loud and only for a few seconds. There was no sound of the engine starting to turn.
I rechecked the battery connections and tried again. This time, the same sound but much quieter and for less time than before, and the dashboard lights only stayed on briefly. It was suggested by a local parts shop that I check to make sure the wire to the starter is not loose. I thought maybe jostling the whole vehicle around a bit would move something and make a difference. So I did that, and tried again. This time, there was a single, dull "click" sound when I turned the key to try and start the van. Also, the dashboard lights only came on briefly when the key was in the "on" position and not when trying to start the engine. And they went out before turning the key to "off". Clearly something is loose.
My question for you guys is where do I look for a possible loose starter wire? I don't even know where the starter is. Do I need to have the car on a lift, or at least lift one wheel on a jack, to find and work on it?