kermit_rr said:

The 2.25 4 cyl is very easy on the handle.
I suspect the v8 is a bit harder because more cylinders but it's still a low compression engine so might be doable. Never tried

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I'm familiar with the process as a mate used to own vintage cars. I know how to hold the handle to save trips to the xray department if it backfires but i've only started cars where you can retard the timing a bit. So i'd REALLY prefer to use the key

Wolf Pack said:

Fair enough, it's a process of elimination.

Checked the starter relay?

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No. No i haven't. Would you have any idea whereabouts it might be? I searched for the fuse box a while ago and failed to find that! Oddly enough when i was holding the ignition key in crank position to feel if the battery terminals were getting hot earlier today i found i was staring straight at the fuse box. I suppose it thinks there's no need to hide any more now i've found it!
I think the relay might be easier to find as i can probably trace the wire back from the solenoid on the starter. If it IS knackered i'll just bypass it using a switch i'll put into the spare hole i have on the dash until i can get a replacement. If it's not the relay, back up plan number 2 is to attach another piece of fat cable to the starter side of the starter solenoid and run it up into the cab and i'll turn the key to throw the bendix out and touch it to the isolated post where the main cable comes from the battery positive to spin the motor! I suspect that'd be easier/safer than using the starting handle. That i haven't got.

Rangieman123 said:

Double check the earth strap from block/gearbox to battery. Grab your jump leads and connect one from battery to the block. Try to start it again to note any improvements. If its still clunking from the solenoid hold the switch to "start" for ten seconds then release. Check every connection on battery and starter for heat. If you've a bad connection it will get hot

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I tried that earlier today. Held it for ten twice. Felt the battery terminals which were stone cold. Didn't crawl underneath to fondle the starter as i went out without my overalls on. All the wiring behind the dash was cold too. While leaning to the left looking at the wiring around the switch, i couldn't believe in that position i was staring straight at the fuse box! Something i'd spent some time trying to find a while back!

I wouldn't rule out a duff battery.

Have you tried jumping it off a running vehicle?