Strange starting issue

[beamonk]

Hello all:
Every time I go to the track and get the engine hotter than normal, at some point the car, a '(76 with a 3.0) won't start. The lights come on, but motor won't turn over. This time, I got it home and no start, I put the battery charger to it, fired right up. Alt is good, generally always starts, just happens when it gets really hot. Any help would be appreciated
Thanks

[Brother]

You might have either an old battery that doesn't hold a full charge or a gunk covered starter. Try testing these first. As heat builds up, the starter needs more power to start it. If this problem is always after you have driven the car, it is most likely one of these problems.

[beamonk]

Battery is good, starter is most likely covered with some junk, but never happens when it gets hot in the summer, only at the track?

[Brother]

Maybe you get it hotter at the track.

I had a mitsu with a blown head gasket that caused copious amounts of gunk to build up on the starter. After a long drive, I could pull into a gas station, fill up, and get ready to go again. And nothing. I would have to sit there with the hood up for 10 minutes until the temp dropped. Problem solved with new head gasket and battery.

Cleaning off the starter doesn't cost anything.