3 replies to this topic

[chippy2710]

Hello I have a 1973 Mini 850 this has the early type starter motor/ solenoid set up NOT the later pre-engaged type.

After having trouble getting it started i had a look and found there was no spark. After changing distributor and coil i discovered the solenoid was not working.

I did this by bridging straight from the loom to the coil, bypassing the solenoid.

This made it start (big success) This then uncovered other issues involving the engine not ticking over but that problem is in another post. However whilst in my search for the reason it wouldn't tick over it then stopped running all together (fail) possibly due to bridging the solenoid. I have now changed the solenoid eliminating the need for the bridge but now when i turn the key it just clicks and does nothing else. I think this is a starter motor problem??? but do not know and would like some expert advice before i go shelling out for a new starter motor.

Thanks

Edited by chippy2710, 21 September 2010 - 07:30 PM.

[maddogmcg]

have you checked that you are getting 12 volts to the starter motor ? new parts can be faulty ,especially as there are parts being manufactured for minis , that are substandard , possibly in newly industialised countries !!!!!!!!!

also check all high amperage connections are clean and secure the starter motor uses a lot of current and dirty / loose connections can affect this greatly .

you can test the starter motor operation using some jump leads ,

remove the starter from the car

clamp one of the flanges in a vice ( or get an assistant to stand on it pn the floor ) if it spins it will jump out of your hand !!!! there is a lot of torque in a strter hence a lot of recoil .

connect the jump leads to a battery and clamp the negative ( earth ) lead to the flange ,then touch the positive lead on the ternimal .

you will soon know if its working or not !!

[chippy2710]

Yep the starter motor has died. Checked all of that and still nothing. Im changing it tomorrow and obviously i have my trusty haynes manual but sometimes its not always as simple as explained in there. So any tips?

[bmcecosse]

Most unusual for the starter to just 'die', and even if it has - it's normally just needing new brushes - have you actually tested it with jump leads direct from a battery ? It's only held in by two bolts - and the electric lead. Best remove the grille to get at it!

Edited by bmcecosse, 22 September 2010 - 10:37 PM.