I was under the impression that a solenoid was an inductive load. When energized, indeed there is a fair amount of current draw..inrush, but the holding current is minimal.
On a system with a 600 amp battery and a starter draw of around 200 amps, the current consumption of the starter solenoid would be inconsequential.
When the solenoid plunger reached the end of its stroke and switched battery voltage to the starter windings, it would be past 'inrush' and in a 'hold' position, further reducing it current consumption.
I have never used the 'hot switch' technique because I always felt the system should work properly if everything was up to snuff.
Some engineer designed the starter to turn that particular engine fast enough to start...hot or cold. If it doesn't do that, something is wrong with the starter.
Stuart
