Starter wouldn't disengage today...maybe fixed?

[mr_manny]

I quickly popped the hood and disconnected the positive battery cable, so I wouldn't burn-up the starter.
Every time I touched the positive cable to the battery, the starter would immediately activate.

My 1990 B2 still has the boat anchor starter, which utilizes a fender mounted starter relay.
I pulled the signal wire from the starter relay, no difference.
I gave the starter relay a few wacks with a rubber mallet, this seems to have fixed it.
Now the starter is behaving normally

Aftermath:
I appear to have blown a fuse...aftermarket usb charging port no longer has voltage.
Alternator seems to be working fine, except the motor dies when I disconnect the positive battery.
I read that this method of testing is no longer recommended.

Guess I'll check fuses and the alternator tomorrow, and pickup a replacement starter relay.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Ive had that happen. Its 99% the fender solenoid