Grinding noise from starter solenoid

[claptonfan]

After sitting for a couple of weeks, my car won't start and the lights wouldn't turn on. I tried jumping it, and the starter solenoid makes a grinding noise. I've replaced the solenoid, had the starter tested, and tried it with a working battery. What could be causing this?

 

[jamyers]

For some reason, you're not getting full current to the relay. Doublecheck the cables, especially the ground on the engine side.

 

[claptonfan]

Thanks. I've already gone through and cleaned all the connections, but its entirely possible that one of the cables has a break somewhere.

 

[LaGrasta]

It's a battery or cable problem. Check, with a volt meter, power at the battery. Then check at the starter. If it's the same, all is well. My bet is it isn't.