New Starter, New Battery. No Crank, only clicks

2002 Toyota 4Runner 4x4. Just installed rebuild engine (I did it so nobody to complain to). Have not started it yet. After no crank and only clicks bought new starter, new starter relay and new battery (needed new ones anyways). It was AutoZone basic starter so maybe that is my problem. I did bench test the starter before install and it worked.

When Jumping starter relay, I only get clicks. I cannot use ignition because remote start has wiring issues. I check ground and voltage at the starter everything checked plus 12 volts at the starter wire (to the connector). I used a remote starter switch from the connector to the larger wire bolt on the starter (bypassing the starter relay) and still only got clicks.

I put an amp probe around around. It fluctuates up and down went to 16 amps for a moment then quickly to 11 and down 6 and below. When tried it again it did not click or show amps above 5 or 6.

I have hand cranked the engine and it turns easy. I cleaned the battery connectors but maybe needed to replace. Any thoughts? I thought maybe it is a cheap starter that does not get enough power to turn it over.

 

Did you jump the starter straight from the battery?

 

Yes, that I was trying to say. I use a harbor freight remote start switch directly from the battery to the starter. I tried it a couple of times. It only clicked for the first few, then stopped. I checked the starter before it was installed and it engaged fine.

 

Just engaged? The clicking you hear is the engagement solenoid but if it's not spinning then you have your answer.

 

I guess i picked a bad word. Before install in spun like its supposed to but when installed it only clicks

 

Have you turned the engine over by hand? I've had a "good" junkyard engine with a seized bearing before.

If the engine spins and the starter free spins, it might just be weak and unable to turn the motor.

 

Yes, i have hand cranked the engine. I rebuilt the engine with a machine shop do the work. It turns over easy. That’s what I am thinking that the baseline AutoZone starter is too weak. Just wanted to try and confirm before I replace it with a better one. Thanks for all the advice.