I'm getting lost with this problem. In the continuing saga of reviving an '88 Volvo 780. (with lots of Brickbard help...) I got replaced the fuel pump. I drove it for a day and then the starter would not engage every time I turned the key. It seems to be hit or miss about when the starter will turn.

I do not get the clicking sound that I am used to when a solinoid fails. I hear a single click that I think is the solinoid, but am not certain. I can hook up a remote switch and the starter will engage and start the car. When I remove the remote switch and try the key, it may or may not start.

Fuel control problems are solved. All fuses are good. Battery and cables are brand new. Ground cables are new. The starter is new..... (Autozone).

At this point I think the problem might be the starter, but when I remove it and hook it up to a battery it spins like it should and seems to have lots of torque. Engine turns easily by hand, so I don't think that the starter is overloaded.

Is there a relay or something between the key and the starter solinoid that I am missing? I have the 780 wiring diagram and it looks like a straight shot. Is the key witch a common failure item? Would that cause a similar intermittancy? I am about ready to install a big red starter button.

Any similar problems or ideas?