Tried starting up my 2000 RX300 .... the starter cranked normally but the vehicle would not start and the starter continued to crank even when I turned the ignition switch to off and removed the key. Had to jam into the garage, grab some tools and disconnect the battery to get it to stop. When I reconnect the battery it sparks like a SOB and the starter starts cranking again. Never seen anything like that. Ignition switch perhaps stuck ?

 

I would think more likely it's the starter solenoid.

 

I pulled the starter relay and that did nothing to stop the starter cranking.

 

I would imagine it's simply best to replace the entire start motor as opposed to only the solenoid correct?

 

NO! Just rebuild the solenoid...easy job, the rest of the starter is bulletproof.

 

Very easy and cheap to rebuild the solenoid. There's probably a DIY in the stickies.

 

Ok thanks guys !

 

Go here...http://www.nationsautoelectric.com/d...rts.html...and watch the video. This is where I got my parts from several times. Be sure to get a new plunger, as well as the contacts.

 

You need to replace the solenoid contacts as stated above.