Starting problem

Hi all sorry im realy stuck with this problem. My 4.0 Se Rangie has developed an intermitant starting fault. At times when you turn the key the engine just clunks as if the bty is flat nut after a few attempts a loude clunk is herd and she fires up. The engine rus fine but does at times loose power but then sparks back into full life. I have noticed that again at times when she does loose power a cylinder on the left hand bank miss fires. Ive had all the leads off and all is ok. Please can any one help. Many thanks
Jules

Sounds nasty to me. In the past I have learned that lound clunks can be expensive so suggest you get it checked out before you drive any further.
The following may help:-
1) Check the leads to the battery and starter motor. the terminals should be clean, smeared with petrolium jelly )vaseline) then tightened.
2) Check the battery by replacing it, it may have a weak cell or try a replacement. RR engines need a big battery to turn the engine over.
3) If the battery is OK check the condition of the bendix (The gear on the end of the motor that mates with the flywheel.) While you are at it make sure there are no teeth missing from the starter ring.
4) If the gears are OK then you may need a new starter motor but in view of the other problem, variable power, it might be wiser to consult a specialist before you get in too deep.

Cheers mike

I have used a discharge tester on the Bty and that indicated the Bty is goosed. Ive also tested it on a multi meter which shows 12.39 volts but drops to 8 Volts when i turn on some of the electrics. I will folow you advice and start with changing the Bty first.
Many thanks
jules

It would be great if that's all it is. Obviously you will have to get one with enough capacity as RR engines need quite a lot of power to turn them over. My VM has two batteries so I hope they never fail.
Happy New year
Mike