8 replies to this topic

[mk=john]

Hi
I have a Mk1 mini, and it has an inertia type starter motor. I am finding that sometimes when i turn the ignition key to start the car, the starter does not turn.

I have found that after i turn the starter motor spindle a bit by hand, the motor then turns when I try and start the car.

Is this a common problem? What is the best way to prevent this (can I lubricate the starter in any way?)

Thanks

[Dan]

It means its time for a new one really. Some people say you can clean it with diesel but I don't know how sensible that is.

[998dave]

Do you just get the solenoid click and nothing more?

As Dan says, looks like it may be time for a new one,

[dklawson]

John, before giving up on this starter take the time to open it up and check a few things.

Remove the starter from the car and disassemble/remove the cable-connection end of the motor.
Clean the commutator with sandpaper (garnet or flint, not wet/dry paper).
While this is apart, apply a liberal coating of 30W oil to the bushing in the end cap and let it soak in.
Apply 30W oil to the front bushing around where the shaft passes through the front cover.
(Don't think about taking the Bendix unit off or apart).
While the oil is soaking in, examine the length of the brushes relative to the specifications in your manual.
If necessary, replace the brushes and any broken brush springs.
While the oil soaks in, use solvent to flush the Bendix unit.
Once the solvent dries, apply powdered graphite or moly to the splines in the Bendix (NO OIL).
Finally use paper towels to remove any oil that didn't soak in, put it all back together and reinstall in the car.

Some people say you shouldn't even put the graphite powder to the Bendix. I do. Regardless, never use oil or grease on them.

I suspect with a little TLC your starter will be fine.

[Dan]

Surely graphite powder will be fine on the Bendix.

[dklawson]

I was taught to use graphite or moly powder on Bendix units but recently I've seen people argue that even those two shouldn't be used. I disagree with their position but feel it should at least be mentioned in case someone is told about this by someone off the forum.

[philc]

surely for the cost of a reconditioned starter motor it will be easier to get a new one, and you get a 12 month warranty. Other wise just hit it with a hammer

[cooperdan]

if you got spare half day strip it and clean it...it be more fun

[dklawson]

surely for the cost of a reconditioned starter motor it will be easier to get a new one, and you get a 12 month warranty. Other wise just hit it with a hammer

Perhaps in the U.K. it would be economical to use a replacement starter. In the U.S. Mini starters are not common or inexpensive.

A further point (if I remember correctly) is that John's car is a Mk1 Cooper. Keeping original parts on it carries a bit more weight than if this was a mid-1970s 1000. The maintenance I described is not hard nor is it costly if you want to keep your original parts.