Problems starting

[jp]

I have read through all the posts and cannot find an answer that fits my situation exactly.  Please bear with me because I have very limited knowledge of cars.

Ever since the last starter we replaced on our 240sx, the car started with some difficulty.  It would turn over sluggishly and eventually start (in the morning).  During the day, it would start only after holding the key to the "on" position for a few seconds.  Two days ago it wouldn't start at all.  When I try to start it now, there is a slight grinding sound.  The engine no longer turns over.  The dash lights up, and I have cleaned the battery terminals.  Without access to equipment to test the amps or voltage, what is a telltale sign that a new starter would do the trick?

Thanks for any help you can give,
JP

[AceInHole]

1. Try jump starting to make sure it's not a dead battery.  
2. Run a wire directly from the battery + to the starter's hot wire (the thick wire running to the starter) and see if it spins.

The solenoid firing (rapid repeated clicking) is a small sign towards the starter being bad.

[240racer]

Does the car drive okay after it is started, if so then your alternator is working properly, if not then it is causing your battery to die.  It really sounds like a dead battery to me

[240sxracer]

if you heard a grinding noise and now the motor wont turn over  pull the starter it might be jamed into the flywheel (last year i was having starter problems just like that then in  it wouldnt turn over so i had it towed to a shop. part of the starter had broke off and was jammed into the flywheel had to get a new starter and flywheel) just a sugesstion

[jp]

It was a bad battery.  Thanks for all the help!

jp