650 SN starter

[cubanpuerto]

So i replaced the starter solenoid after troubleshooting for ever and ski still has trouble turning over.
So i have a couple of ?
First of, I tried jumper cables to an engine bolt from the negative and still has trouble turning it over. That rules out my cables and it would mean my starter is going, correct?
Second, if my starter is at fault, in order to get to the stater, i have to remove the exhaust pipe/manifold, correct? If so, do i need to torque the screws down on the exhaust manifold after i am finished?

Forgot to add, the ground/neg cable heats up real bad when trying to start it. A lil bit of smoke did come off it at one point. Could that be the problem?

If i do have to replace my starter, is it hard to do with medium mechanical skills and some tools? Any tips appreciated!

Thanks!
Dave:friday:

 

[stanton]

did you try another battery or using jumper cables?

 

[cubanpuerto]

Yeah i tried jumper cables^
Tried a different battery even though mine read 12.6V.
Still nothing!
Can lead/acid battery's be charged?

 

[sflsurfrider]

you could have a bad positive connector, or wire, on the starter.

 

[Boris]

Check the wire connections right at the starter again.

If you are worried about removing the exhaust manifold than why not pull the whole motor ?
8 motor mount bolts (no need to worry about re-shimming), 4 electrical bolts and remove the chamber.
While you have it out you can clean the bilge and do all the little things you have been putting off.