2 years ago I fitted a second hand Valeo starter.

Sadly its now started to not work, probably 4 times in 10 I have to give the solenoid a good whack with the starting handle, although it's worse when its damp.

Ecas have 2 starters available, a smaller 'new technology' Valeo one and a cheaper bigger copy one.

Any ideas on which is best? I've heard Valeo ones can go 'graunchy' after a while?

Or is there anything I can do to fix my existing one?

You're doing it wrong; the starting handle goes into the dog on the front of the fan to start the engine.......... Turn clockwise, keep your thumb next to the rest of your fingers.

Have a loook at the carbon brushes if they arent making good contact the solenoid doesny throw properly.

most starters are easily dismantled and the body of the solenoid cleaned

make sure all the cables and the terminals are good on the back of the starter

I called in to Ken on way to WM with a supposedly dead starter only to find that the terminal on the back was a dry joint as Id power washed the engine the previous month and blasted all the coppaslip off.

Sean

From what you say, Sam, you can almost certainly fix your existing motor by dismantling and cleaning it. I haven't taken a 2CV starter motor apart, but imagine it's no more difficult than other 'early' types. It should be a fairly logical procedure, and the 'sticky' parts will also likely reveal themselves.

Sounds like the motor itself is working ok; it's just the solenoid part wot's reluctant to move?

Anyone on here done this job and can provide pointers?

Or fit one of these which are ultra reliable.