dblevitan

Hi,
I have a 95 Maxima SE with Manual Trasmission. I've been having intermittent problems starting recently. It seems that if the car sits for about an hour or so after running, it will not start. I do know that after several hours it starts, and it will start if I try again after 10 or 15 minutes. From my research, I think this is a problem with the solenoid or the starter. When it does not start, there is no cranking noise whatsoever. I do know voltage is being sent to the solenoid, so it seems the clutch switch and interlock relay are operating normally (I've tested both of those). Also, it seems hitting the solenoid/starter with a screwdriver helps to get the engine started. However, I have also seen postings of people who said that this sort of problem was due to a loose engine ground connection. I have not been able to locate these connections. I am wondering if anyone can tell me where to look for these, and also what the easiest way is to check whether it is only a problem with the solenoid or with the whole starter. Finally, what is the best/cheapest solenoid/starter that I can buy (I've seen auto-parts store sell them for $150-$300, and the local dealer has them for around $270, but I'm not sure which is the best to buy).
Thank you very much for your help,
David Levitan



Edit: I forgot to mention that jumpstarting seems to help, but it requires that the other car has been driven around a bit before my car can start. I have also replaced the battery since this started, and that has not helped.