Starter Motor

[jfs52e]

I hadn't run Humpty for a few weeks while doing some bodywork maintenence. When I tried to start him he wouldn't play. The fuel pump was clicking away and the speedo was showing the oil and ignition light. When i pulled the starter I got a dull Clunk, the oil & ign lights went dim but nothing else. As a random act I tried using the handle and he started without too much trouble. I ran him for a bit and drove round the block. Switched him off and tried again. Same thing. Probably obvious to others, but new starter required? (or a repair) or could it be something else?

Thanks

[don58van]

That seems like a very weak battery to me.

It must have been on its last legs when you took it off the road. A while without being charged has allowed it to deteriorate.

It is just possible that a good charge will refresh it.

You could also try taking the battery connections off and giving them and the terminals clean.

Don

[bmcecosse]

2nd vote for flat/knackered battery. Charge it overnight.

[jfs52e]

Cheers guy's. Certainly easier than the starter motor. I'll try it

[bmcecosse]

Or just try jump leads! But then you need to check the charging circuit - measure battery volts...should be 13.8/14 at decent revs - and should hold pretty much the same volts with headlights and heater motor running...

[panky]

I had the same problem a couple of weeks ago. I gave the starter a few taps with a spanner and it worked - for a while, new starter motor brushes cured it. If it's the same after charging the battery give it a whack (starter not battery)

[jfs52e]

Put the battery on charge last night. Tried it today and he started, but only once. I recon the battery may be shot, not holding a charge.

[bmcecosse]

Charge it again! I got a very good battery deal from a lad selling 'Lucas' batteries -he was in Dalmarnock area, although may have been moved by 'The Commie Games' . Here's the link.... http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/063-12V-Car-B ... 2c5f86bc0e

[jfs52e]

Thanks Roy. They are only about 10 minutes away from me. I'll give it another few charges and see how things go first