Breakdown chap did the screwdriver shorting thing, I daren't do it myself, and no change Just a click. After repeated attempts to get it to turn over, there wasn't even a click. Conclusion, solenoid is knackerd!
Always remember. Reconditioned kit is someboy else's mega fail, with the least necessary fixes done to make it work. Not all recon starters make it to working in a bus in the first place. So 10 months is within normal range of life span..
Quickest way to check the earth strap, is to take a jump lead from somewhere safe on the engine block straight to the negative on the battery. Any improvement??