Intermittent starting problem

Post by **Onne** » Fri Oct 17, 2008 11:03 pm

I have got an intermittent starting problem on my '55.

Sometimes when I pull the starting switch nothing happens.

Are there any contacts that can be cleaned up?

Post by **mike.perry** » Sat Oct 18, 2008 12:25 pm

Switch the headlights on and see if they go dim when you pull the starter. That will check if you have a circuit to the starter, works better with a low battery.
If so check the starter spindle is turning.
Can you start the engine using the starter button under the bonnet?
Check the earth strap and the main cables from the battery to the starter are tight.
Check the starter mounting bolts are tight.
If all else fails maybe your starter motor has an internal fault or is just worn out. Could be the brushes are worn.
Try another starter motor.

Post by **Onne** » Sat Oct 18, 2008 1:13 pm

As far as I can see (this is from memory as of course the problem isn't there at the moment...)
Lights stay bright (as do the ignition and oil pressure warning light.
Starter spindle is not turning
Under bonnet button does exactly the same as the internal pull (i.e. nothing)
I will check the cables, earth is good.

Starter motor is only 1 year old, so that is probably it...

Post by **polo2k** » Sat Oct 18, 2008 1:21 pm

on mine at the moment ive got a loose clamp on the battery and this has the same symptoms I think.

Post by **Onne** » Sat Oct 18, 2008 1:25 pm

If the clamp is loose (i have had that before

) the lights go out as soon as I pull the starter switch...

I'll double check them anyway!

Post by **polo2k** » Sat Oct 18, 2008 1:53 pm

oh oops, i missed that, maybe try using a jump lead to bridge the non earthed batt terminal to the terminal on the starter. If it goes (youll jump when it tries so keep your head away from the bonnet) then its electric related. if nothing happens then its either the battery, the earth or the starter.

When your checking the earth try puppling the starter off and check the mating surface is clean and also check the engine to chassis earth because if this fails then the car will try and use the clutch linkage and back axle/rear flexis, as earth routes.

Post by **rayofleamington** » Sat Oct 18, 2008 7:11 pm

It could be poor contacts in the switch - my 54 used to do that.
I used to pull harder the second time and it usually worked, but i expect there comes a time when it will no longer work.

Post by **mike.perry** » Sun Oct 19, 2008 12:28 pm

Check the connections between your arm and the starting handle!!!!

Post by **bmcecosse** » Sun Oct 19, 2008 4:36 pm

Does sound like dodgy pull-switch. Dig up a spare pronto!