Weird and intermittent starting issue - any words of wisdom?

Defender TD5 90 2001: 70K miles on the clock

About one time in 10, when I turn the ignition key I get nothing - not even a click. It was doing it more frequently, but a removal and clean of the starter motor terminals seems to help matters. But, it still does it, and I am logically concerned that it will finally give up the ghost at the most inconvenient time when I am in the middle of nowhere!

I wondered whether replacing the ignition switch and barrel was the next logical step?

Any similar experiences would be good to know, thanks in advance

Have had the same problems with my 200tdi for the last seven months,every now and then power does not get to the starter solonoid. Replaced the ignition unit, the relay, and cleaned all contacts, still the same. It could be your solonoid has gone a bit lazy [ mine is ok' goes every time with a direct link from live under the bonnet.]
Can go weeks without it happening but then for no particular reason.
Have since fitted an extra start button in the cab but would still like to get to the bottom of the problem.
I do now know it is somewhere from the ignition switch to the relay.

When it happens get someone to turn the key while you tap the solenoid. Also, ignition at start check for voltage at the signal wire, A lazy battery can bugger a starter, as can bad contacts in the starting circuit. But it does sound like your solenoid is on its way out.

When you say "you get nothing", I presume you mean "nothing" in the sense that the starter doesn't "work", but all the correct lights on the dash appear as normal ?

If so then the starter solenoid on the TD5 is a known weakness, and there is a cheap repair kit which you'll find on the bay of fleas...

I had a similar issue, so I changed the fuel-stop solenoid and replaced the 5Nr YWB10032L relays in the centre fuse box (mine is a 1989 110 NAD).
Since then she has been starting and running perfectly

Mine did that, bought a starter contacts overhaul kit from tbay and it worked ok.