Explorer EDIS starter solenoid wiring

[76Bronco302]

A little confused on how to wire the starter solenoid on my EFI swap. I used the original style 4 post solenoid but realized the explorer starter has a starter solenoid on it as well. I wired the starter solenoid normally. Should I switch something up or remove it? Or possibly go with the starter solenoid used on the explorer?

 

[doghows72]

Good,question I'm getting ready to start my swap and I was just going to switch the starter out to a non solenoid type like I have on my truck now?
I hope that's right but I'm sure the experts will chime in for us.

 

[904Bronco]

You will get conflicting views about solenoids, whether to use the original or the Explorer's. When going to EFI I have always switched it out as there is supposed to be a diode in the later which prevents feedback. But I have read folks using their original without issue.

Yes, some people do rewire their rigs to eliminate the factory solenoid on the fender.

The wiring for the PM starter is easy, I refer people to this article...


http://www.bcbroncos.com/ford starters.pdf

 

[Broncobowsher]

The one thing I like about the original solenoid...

The I-post that keeps the ignition powered up while in start. The factory Bronco ignition switch doesn't always keep the power to the ignition while in start. Some do, some don't, and some (like my last one) would go either way depending on the mood of the switch.

 

[76Bronco302]

Good,question I'm getting ready to start my swap and I was just going to switch the starter out to a non solenoid type like I have on my truck now?
I hope that's right but I'm sure the experts will chime in for us.

Im thinking Ill try this method first.

 

[garberz]

I used the stock Explorer fender mounted solenoid just to switch the start signal wire that goes to the starter. Having the extra positive lugs near the battery is a big help. Seems like the is never enough places to power things up

Mark

 

[DirtDonk]

One good indicator for leaving it in place is the fact that Ford did it that way.
Even though there is an actual solenoid on the modern starters, the fender mounted "starter motor relay" (Ford's name for it (not a solenoid)) is still utilized on many Ford products. Including Mustangs and Explorers.

Maybe they kept it in place for the extra wiring space as was mentioned. Or maybe they kept it in use because of the potential feedback issues causing starter run-on that many people experience. Or maybe they just like having a big heavy duty relay to control a circuit like this.
I personally prefer using one, if only to take the extra load off of the stock ignition switch.

Like 904, I usually recommend switching the old relay over to the modern diode-type relay that you would have found in the Explorer donor.
For the diode, and I like them because of the top facing posts too.

Paul