9 replies to this topic

[NielsTim]

Hi,

 

Saloon 1988.

 

We had it running, fine tuned the timing. Shut of engine and wanted to fix the distributor (after tuning timing). With the spanner while turning the bolt (fix distributor) touched the alternator and a short circuit happened (including spark). Now the starter doesn't turn. Not the plus from battery is still working, but the circuit is not closed as the chassis is not neg. All fuses are okay.

 

Where to start ?

Could it be the starter solenoid ?

 

Support is appreciated.

 

Niels 

 

 

[NielsTim]

After reading some more, tried to short the solenoid: ignition on and with screwdriver connecting the plus and earth on the solenoid, but no sparks. Starter solenoid / motor faulty ?

[NielsTim]

Have tested both solenoid and start motor and both work fine. there must be some short circuit as I measure resistance between plus (on starter motor direct from battery) to engine (earth). faulty relay ? 

[hhhh]

You don't want to short the plus and earth of the solenoid; I think you meant the two large terminals which sends power to the starter motor. Alternately you can jump hot to the small terminal to bypass the ignition start position and test the solenoid action.

 

Shorting the two large terminals bypasses the solenoid which determines whether it's your problem (yes, if the starter turns). Shorting the alternator shouldn't have damaged the starter or the solenoid, but it could blow diodes in the alternator.

[NielsTim]

Update: after connecting the neg of the battery direct to the engine (earth) the car starts. Conclusion it has to do with the earth, However connecting the battery to the chassis and the earth strap from chassis to engine, it doesn't start. I'll try to optimise the earth connection tomorrow.

[cal844]

Clean up the engine earth. Or fit a new earth from inner wing and engine

[sledgehammer]

+1 on above

 

check earth on battery - esp the terminal to the body

 

& both battery posts

 

best of luck

Edited by sledgehammer, 25 December 2017 - 07:54 PM.

[CityEPete]

Have you fitted the earth strap from the engine to the bulkhead bracket,if so make sure you've put the washers in the right order so it's making contact with the body not being insulated by the rubber bushes.

[NielsTim]

 Hi all,

Proper earth did the job indeed. Connected the earth to the bulkhead instead of wing.

Thanks all. Can be closed.

[CityEPete]

Good stuff