1971 1600 starter

[Wino24]

Hi gang...before I go out and buy a new starter, which is what I think my issue is, I wanted to run this by you all.
I believe it's the starter because sometimes when I turn the key I hear nothing, sometimes I hear the solenoid click, and a couple of times the engine would turn, but not start, which I figured is because the starter just wasn't spinning fast enough. The battery is fully charged and I've checked my connections, which are clean and tight.
I'd also like to to know if you all think the starter is the issue which starter should I get. I saw a Bosch for around $220, but it's made in China. I know Bosch are supposed to be the best, but the China thing has me a little nervous, plus I saw one on JBugs(I believe) that was made in Germany for about $150. As they say... I'd rather buy once and cry once rather than having to buy another starter in a few years .
Any thoughts or opinions would be greatly appreciated...Thanks
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'71 Standard Beetle

[doug bugg]

This is a long shot, but is the ground strap on your trans in good shape with clean connections?
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"Knowledge is Good" - Faber College

[passionre]

I would do a little more testing before I replaced the starter, there is a good chance you only need to put a hot start relay conversion on it due to a weak ignition switch or wiring between the switch and starter relay.

[Cusser]

[Bobs67vwagen]

If you do eventually buy a starter I would suggest a rebuilt Bosch sr-17x. This is a self supporting starter( no bushing) and was used on the auto stick shifts and 914s among others. There is a guy selling them on the samba classifieds under the 68 and newer section. I have been using these for about 40 years with no problems. Where are you on Long Island? I grew up in Bay Shore and lived in West Islip and Commack. Good luck-Bob

[jeffrey8164]

Most FLAPS (friendly local auto parts stores) will test your starter for free. At least around here they do but you can test it yourself with a cheap push button.
https://www.amazon.com/Performance-Tool-W80586-Rem...mp;sr=8-12
This would at least isolate the problem to wiring within the car
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Volkswagen!
Turning owners into mechanics since 1938.

“Let he that is without oil throw the first rod”
(Compression 8.7:1)

[Cusser]

[bsairhead]

Neutral and chocked. Screwdriver and know how and a little nerve. Test your starter.

[Starbucket]

Get a volt meter and see how much voltage is reaching the solenoid (small black wire on solenoid) if less than 12V the electrical part of key switch is dead.

[runamoc]

[Wino24]

I tried a few of the suggestions from you all and I'm pretty sure it's the starter. I have 12.7 volts at the starter, checked all connections, have a good ground, and even put a screwdriver across the terminals ,which unfortunately did not have any effect. It wasn't until I gave the starter a few wraps with a hammer that it jumped to life.
So, I guess I'll be replacing the starter.
Thanks for all the help , I appreciate it.
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'71 Standard Beetle

[Cusser]

[OldSchoolVW's]