engine won't crank

[druggist]

This is just a tip in case your bird won't start after sitting all winter. I had removed the battery and put it on trickle charge in the basement for the winter. I decided to try to start my 56 bird in March (because I hadn't added Stabil to the fuel and just now added it along with octane booster). The only thing I had was clicking and then just buzzing that sounded like it was coming from the solenoid (relay). I tried another battery from a Mercedes and also the battery charger set on start, and got the same result. I ordered a new relay from Casco and got the same result when again I tried to start the car. I then removed the starter -after much trouble with the top bolt - and took it to Advance Auto where, it tested out fine. I reinstalled the starter after cleaning the outside and found that an extension and a 1/2" short socket could just barely get to that top bolt. I put everything back together - still just clicking. I tried to jump the relay with a jumper cable - just a spark and smoke from the negative terminal. Here the problem was the brass battery disconnect I had purchased last year. I removed the disconnect and it started right up. So, if you have a problem starting your car, check the disconnect for corrosion before going to all the trouble I encountered.