Engine Starting problem

[Seventh Wave]

My van wont start. The starter motor is fine (it's been checked) but it wont engage the engine. When ignition is turned on the starter makes a a clicking noise - about 3 clicks per sec. I have tried jump leads with no joy. Is it possible that the cog in the engine is broken (the wheel that gets turned by starter)? Or could it be that the battery doesn't have enough power, even with jump leads, to push the starter back into engine). Can anybody please help? All advice gratefully received.

[NORMANTHEDOG]

your battery is completely drained,it will not even start with jump leads,it either needs re charging or replacing,the latter being the best option.

[woodchopper]

Providing the battery is ok - it sounds like the starter solenoid is faulty.
Broken ring gear on flywheel - possible, but not likely your fault.
The battery drives the starter motor which forces the pinion (cog) ihto mesh with the ring gear on the flywheel and turns the engine - once the engine fires the flywheel then drives the pinion back down the starter motor shaft then the starter disengages once the key is relaeased.
But as Norm says get the battery checked out first - if it is over 5yrs old chuck it.

[Disco Fever]

Also look at the earth lead that goes from the engine to the battery and make sure it's fully connected....

[Seventh Wave]

Thanks,
The starter solonoid is ok - I have replaced starter and seen it working fine on another vehicle. The starter is definately turning too, and I have power enough in battery for lights and radio. What is puzlling is that the starter sounds like it is turning strongly - just not engaging flywheel.
The battery is old, and vehicle was idle for about 6 weeks.
I will replace battery and see if that fixes it - it could probably use a new one regardless.

Thanks for advice.