i just bought a 89 pickup and the guy said it clicked sometimes and just told me to beat on the starter and it would start well i tried and tried and it wont start so i took it out and hooked it up to a jump pack and it just makes a soft click still so replace the contacts or what.

 

i would take it to a auto part and have them check it.

 

like norcal said take it out and have it checked by an auto parts place ie autozone, advance auto etc. For god measure I would replace the contacts and plunger anyway. They are a very common wear item. At least on the 22r's. Don't know what you have or if the 3.slows have the same issue/starter. They are cheap as well. You probably wont find them in an auto parts store though,. Might have to get them at an auto electric place that rebuilds starters and alternators.