Missing Magnetic Starter Relay: Reinstall or Leave As-Is?

[Semper Gumby]

As I’ve been chasing a no-start issue on my recently acquired 1967 REO M35A2 (ex–fire department (FD) rescue truck), I noticed the magnetic starter relay (the "Relay") is missing. That’s not unusual as several threads here mention trucks showing up without one. That said, I haven’t found a consistent rationale for eliminating it per these threads. Given how simple these starter circuits are it's hard to see the engine designer(s) being "okay" with that bypass.

The FD removal is curious given these mechanics deal with extremely expensive vehicles (former life my employer owned one of the main FD truck companies) and if it has a reliability purpose .... not clear why they'd run the deuce without one.

While I’m confident I’ll eventually find the usual electrical culprits (I plan to replace the accessory switch, Packard connectors, etc.), I’m trying to decide whether to reinstall the Relay, since the truck is running what I best can tell is a RAREELECTRIC starter and solenoid. It's a rebuilt one by ACC Rebuilders Inc.

Has anyone here worked through this decision or found a good reason to keep the bypass instead of restoring the relay?

Notwithstanding the above, I can start the deuce using the screwdriver method which is not ideal.

 

[glcaines]

I highly recommend replacing the relay.

 

[Semper Gumby]

I highly recommend replacing the relay.

Thanks

Any thoughts on the starter relay version?

I have read a few posts that mention using a non-government type as being fine but none that evaluate the utility of one.

The government issued (Part: 6183391) which is running around $200 on eBay versus the Extreme Outback 100A version $40. Obviously the later needs to be affixed at a different location than the 6183391.

I'm used to finding alternatives when dealing with engine and electrical for my 1978 FJ40 as parts are expensive.

 

[jasonjc]

Mine was missing and I just wired the start switch straight to the starter and have not had any problems in 20 years.

 

[Semper Gumby]

Mine was missing and I just wired the start switch straight to the starter and have not had any problems in 20 years.

Thanks for the insights on keeping it as is.

Based on your 20 years of ownership, I trust your Deuce is well taken care of … any initial issues when you first acquired it particulary the wiring?

Mine lived a few decades as a high water rescue truck so its got ridden hard and left to dry out to rust.

 

[glcaines]

I found an NOS one on Ebay for ~$50.00 a while back. Turned out I didn't need it so I sold it to someone else. There is an NOS one for sale on Ebay right now for $220.00 with free shipping.

 

[Semper Gumby]

There is an NOS one for sale on Ebay right now for $220.00 with free shipping.

Thanks for the heads-up . I’ll circle back to that NOS relay on eBay.

That said, I’ve had mixed luck on eBay over the years, especially sourcing FJ40 parts from non-owners as quality was pretty hit or miss. Whenever possible, I’d rather buy from forum members or vendor supporters here; there’s just a lot more trust and shared knowledge behind the parts.

That said (again), I am a realist too.

 

[Semper Gumby]

There is an NOS one for sale on Ebay right now for $220.00 with free shipping.

Tried a few vendors with no luck so I got one from eBay for a bit less.

 

[marchplumber]

Keep in mind Army 6x6 (Andy) out of MN. Great guy, never EVER done me wrong. army6x6.com
Between him and Jim, they've ALWAYS taken care of us here in Central Illinois

 

[Semper Gumby]

Keep in mind Army 6x6 (Andy) out of MN. Great guy, never EVER done me wrong. army6x6.com
Between him and Jim, they've ALWAYS taken care of us here in Central Illinois

Thanks!

I’ll check them out.

Just to be clear, are guys like Army6x6 operating as dedicated vendors, or do they also list parts on eBay from time to time?

I’m trying to avoid the random eBay roulette, so knowing who’s an actual stand-alone seller helps.

 

[marchplumber]

Thanks!

I’ll check them out.

Just to be clear, are guys like Army6x6 operating as dedicated vendors, or do they also list parts on eBay from time to time?

I’m trying to avoid the random eBay roulette, so knowing who’s an actual stand-alone seller helps.

Idk if listing on ebay. Have to ask them. I call and or email and solution is shipped, dang handy! =). They are an independent business.

 

[Semper Gumby]

Idk if listing on ebay. Have to ask them. I call and or email and solution is shipped, dang handy! =). They are an independent business.

Gathering from the post, they're regular vendors and not necessarily eBay vendors.

I'll look for them in the "vendor" section here - thanks.

 

[marchplumber]

Gathering from the post, they're regular vendors and not necessarily eBay vendors.

I'll look for them in the "vendor" section here - thanks.

If you punch in Army 6x6.com it'll come up

 

[Semper Gumby]

If you punch in Army 6x6.com it'll come up

I found them (him) on eBay and saved his profile for future use.