697 replies to this topic

[GraemeC]

I would still be suspecting the starter motor - I went through three re-con units on my auto-test car before I got a reliable one and the symptons were identical to yours, even with directly connected jump leads. What does the starter do if you connect it up when out of the engine?

I also found the engine very difficult to turn over by hand - I think the starter was sticking somehow and the pinion was staying engaged.

Also you said you connected the -ve jumper cable to the starter bolt. Is there a good clean connection between the bolt and the starter body, or the starter body and the flywheel housing?

[Jammy]

Hmmmmm, I may try a brand new starter from Minispares I gues....

When I connect the starter up out of the engine it spins up fine. The bendix moves up and down the shaft easily. I have two recon jobbies and both are the same.

Yea, all the connections have been cleaned rigorously.

As I say I've tried starting the engine with the clutch cover off, so I know the starter is engaging and disengaging properly, everything seems to be working as it should, its just not turning over quick enough.

[GraemeC]

When you jumpered off the Halfords battery was the original still connected? Disconnect it first to eliminate any drain it might have on the new battery. As an experiment I would even be tempted to remove the earth strap from the engine to isolate it from the rest of the car - a dodgy earth connection elsewhere could be enough to take power from the starter, especially of the starter is struggling.

I would expect the engine to turn slower at TDC & 180 as the pistons and rings change direction. Take the plugs out completely - if the engine turns over then then I would not suspect it to be the problem at this stage. Especially if you can turn it over by hand woth a socket & ratchet on the crank pulley bolt (or flywheel bolt as you have the cover off).

My money is certainly on either a lazy starter or a still dodgy connection somewhere.

[Jammy]

Hmmm, I can turn the engine over by grabbing the flywheel with the clutch cover off. And with the spark plugs out I the engine does turn over a lot quicker as could be expected.

I'll get a brand new starter and go from there then!

[Jammy]

Got my brand new starter motor at lunch today, from Minispares (linky). Fitted it, and with the choke out the engine started quicker than I've ever had a mini engine start!!

So GraemeC, if/when we meet, I owe you a big wet kiss!

[[email protected]]

I am sure he will be pleased with that!

[GraemeC]

Bu66er. I'm off - and not down south!

Simon - do I get comission on that starter I just sold for you??!!

[[email protected]]

Nope!

A kiss from Jammy not enough?

Edited by [email protected], 26 September 2007 - 01:29 PM.

[CanadianMiniFan]

i think that would be - ve lol.

[*Raz*]

So GraemeC, if/when we meet, I owe you a big wet kiss!

can i watch

[paulrockliffe]

What are the size/width of those wheels you've got? Are they 6 x 10? If they are can you let me know how much they're sticking out of the body please?

Looks really good, probably won't need painting

[Retro_10s]

Just so you know paul.... not all 6x10's will have the same offset so unless you're buying those exact wheels, a measurement wont be much use.

[paulrockliffe]

Just so you know paul.... not all 6x10's will have the same offset so unless you're buying those exact wheels, a measurement wont be much use.

Yeah good point, though I was thinking Wellers would look pretty neat

[GraemeC]

Raz - if we let you watch how are you going to return the favour?

paulrockliffe - I have a vague memory Jammy was selling those wheels so don't want to p1ss on his bonfire - but if I'm wrong, and you want some, let me know

[Jammy]

The fronts stick out about 4.5-5", but with an inch spacer. The backs are about 3.5-4". I'm selling some 10x5 Weller motorsport wheels. Like the ones the Minus has, but round holes, instead of straight spokes.