[Vwdiesel] '93 EV DSL - more bizarre goings-on

[rOLf peCHUkas]

OK
took a look at the runaway starter
the *stud* on the solenoid that the big cable from the battery connects 
to is *loose*
AND the black plastic cap on the back of the solenoid is cracked where 
that bolt goes through it
if I turn that stud the crack opens and closes - something internal is 
acting as a 'cam'

when I try to tighten the nut on that stud w/ cables connected, starter 
engages as soon as I apply torque
so I'm pretty sure the 'short' that caused the runaway is internal to 
the solenoid and is related to that crack and loose stud

reconnecting leads and trying to start using key I get weak grinding 
crank for 1/2 a second and then freewheeling starter whir (no solenoid)
or else I just get starter whir

does anyone think I can rebuild that solenoid, or is it $125 time?

thanks
Rolf