Starting problems

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bonnybrook

Active Member
Posts
424
Latest problem with the Freebe - just when it was going so well. Started a couple of days ago.

When it been standing for a few hours it doesn;t start first turn of the key - nothing at all. Second turn it fired up ok. It's been stood at the train station for 3 days and took three goes to get it to go tonight. It would then start every time.

Throught it might be a fueling prob (pump) but no other symptoms. Maybe plugs - but i the coil light was out and I left it a few seconds - although its pretty warm at the momemt anyway. Maybe a dodgy connection to the starter? Not sure where to start with this one!

Thanks guys
 
Not that bad yet!

Just checked terminals and they look ok. Gave the starter a little tap too. I have seen a suggestion the ignition switch can be a cause of this.
 
I had the same problem. Overhauled starter, spent hours searching/ checking. No joy.
Renewed ignition switch and swapped a relay in the engine compartment fuse box. swapped number 2 relay (SM) with relay 3. Never had a problem since.
Only changed the relays cos a mate said it was buzzing when nowt else was happening on turning the key.
Try swapping relays, if no change pm me and I will send you my spare ignition switch. No cost ways of trying to get a fix.
Goopd luck. F
 
Not that bad yet!

Just checked terminals and they look ok. Gave the starter a little tap too. I have seen a suggestion the ignition switch can be a cause of this.

Had the same problem a few weeks ago, changed ignition switch, starter motor relay and checked the starter motor connections, it would be ok for a few days and then none start, removed starter motor and serviced, found solenoid contacts worn and burnt away, replaced contacts that a local starter motor company sold me for £25 if I remember correctly and I have not had the problem since.
 
Thanks guys. I'm going to try it tomorrow after it's been sat all night - its a very recent problem, I will see if the earlier tinker with starter has sorted it, if not I suspect ignition or starter motor. It's a pain to troubleshoot as only been happening after being left for a while - starts fine after the first start.

I also read an issue with the Auto (which mine is) and neutral sensor can cause a similar issue.
 
Update - started today 1st time with no issue following checking contacts and giving the starter a gentle knock with the hammer yesterday! I will see if it re-occurs and start swapping bits over.

I do seem to recall the usual set of lights didn't come on the dash when I first tried it, guess this would point to the ignition or relay. However, second turn yesterday it didn't start although it tried.
 
Update - started today 1st time with no issue following checking contacts and giving the starter a gentle knock with the hammer yesterday! I will see if it re-occurs and start swapping bits over.


Hmmmmm,,, If it dunt work hit it wi a hammer,,,:D :D :D
 
Bleedin problems back (not took the hammer to it yet) - took 8 goes to get it to start this morning. Maybe this damp weather. There is a clicking sound and dash lights are on so I suspect it might be the starter but starter doesn't turn. Ran through gears to try and rule out a switch problem there.

Do this sound like the starter rather than ingnition?

Motors are about £130 - looks and easy fit but difficult to get at - anyone done this?
 
Would try the cheaper option...ignition module... first. Cost about 12 quid from main stealer and simple 20 min fit....Most will need replacing at some time anyway.
 
Bleedin problems back (not took the hammer to it yet) - took 8 goes to get it to start this morning. Maybe this damp weather. There is a clicking sound and dash lights are on so I suspect it might be the starter but starter doesn't turn. Ran through gears to try and rule out a switch problem there.

Do this sound like the starter rather than ingnition?

Motors are about £130 - looks and easy fit but difficult to get at - anyone done this?


Sounds like the starter solonoid is working but the actual motor aint spinning.
 
Gave it a little tap with a spanner earlier and still no better (fixed last time). Hear click and lights dim but it doesn't crank. Doesn crank first time someones then takes 3 or 4 goes.

Pretty sure it's the starter - looks to be just two bolts and easyish to get out - see if I can get a cheapy on ebay.
 
Ordered one from Island 4x4 - £139 inc del which seems pretty good, few second hand on ebay but I need it urgently. New unit and not recon.

Checked with main stealer

Exchange £155 (plus 70 deposit on return)
New £259

Thought I might have well have the part in case it stops working totally. I'm now carrying a full set of tools in the car!
 
1st attempt to get stater out failed. Two bolt holding it, one at the front easy to remove - sprayed the other day with pen fluid. One at the back is nightmare to get at - can't actually see it. Had to remove battery and holder to gain access with an extension. Can't shift the bolt for love nor money. Tried to spray to pen on it but very difficult to get at.

Any ideas? I'm going to have another go Sat with a longer wrench to try and get move leverage on it.
 
Success - managed to shift the top bolt. Be aware if trying this there is another bolt right next to the starter motor one. I was initially trying to loosen this - I belive it one holding the gear box on! Decent ratchet and it popped off.

Thanks to clutchdust for some sound advice on this.

I dismanted the solenoid and both copper contacts quite corroded. Will clean these up and it should be a working starter again. I believe someone managed to get spares for these on ebay. Would have tried this but going on holiday and didn't want to take a chance on it.

Starts first time every time (for now :))

Couple of pics -
 

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