Starter Solenoid "S" terminal getting 3 volts

[1997XLTRollover]

Ok guys as some of you saw my starter solenoid failed recently in my 96. To make a long story short when I pull the "S" terminal wire off my solenoid and test voltage to it with the key out of the ignition, I'm seeing 3 volts. Is this normal or could this have been the reason my solenoid died after only a year of replacing it?

I know it's supposed to get 12 volts when key is in "start" and "zero" when key is off, but is 3 volts considered "zero"? Can someone with a V8 truck measure this and see if they see the same 3 volts?

EDIT: I should clarify, I'm seeing the 3 volts on the wiring of the "S" terminal, not the terminal itself.

 

[imp]

Ok guys as some of you saw my starter solenoid failed recently in my 96. To make a long story short when I pull the "S" terminal wire off my solenoid and test voltage to it with the key out of the ignition, I'm seeing 3 volts. Is this normal or could this have been the reason my solenoid died after only a year of replacing it?

I know it's supposed to get 12 volts when key is in "start" and "zero" when key is off, but is 3 volts considered "zero"? Can someone with a V8 truck measure this and see if they see the same 3 volts?

EDIT: I should clarify, I'm seeing the 3 volts on the wiring of the "S" terminal, not the terminal itself.

Voltage must be measured between two points or places. You are seeing 3V. measured between the S wire connector and where else? Where are you placing the other meter probe? Ground? imp

 

[1997XLTRollover]

Voltage must be measured between two points or places. You are seeing 3V. measured between the S wire connector and where else? Where are you placing the other meter probe? Ground? imp

To the neg terminal on the battery. I just checked my 98 F-150 too and it has the exact same voltage so I think it's normal.

 

[Flash]

To the neg terminal on the battery. I just checked my 98 F-150 too and it has the exact same voltage so I think it's normal.

Bloody electricals!

If you can't hit it with a hammer it's too technical.