replaced starter still won't crank
 

I just replaced the starter thinking it had a flat spot ( had to tap starter to get it to catch). Now with the new starter it won't crank. Battery seems to be ok. I can jump it at the solenoid and the engine will crank. When tried with the key the power pulsates, headlights go off and on the inst. panel flashes. any ideas???

sounds like a bad connection or abad ground. Almost guaranteed. Check the bolts on the starter, battery , and body grounds

Has the battery been tested? I'm betting it's bad.

Was changing the starter hard? Do you need any special tools? Can a regular mechanic do it? or even a DIY?

Thanks everybody. Finally got the battery checked, it was only 8 months old, it was bad.
I didn't think the battery would act quite like that. Thanks for the help.

Glad you were able to resolve it.

The R&R of the starter went fairly easy. Just support the motor/trans when you remove the motor support. it covers the left side of the starter, can't come out with out removing it. there is just enough room to pull the starter out, back first with solenoid to the left.

Thanks Jasper!

Any other advice? I'm a DIY.

S.