5 replies to this topic

[MOOSH]

Dear all,

My mini's been sat for a very long time and tgis is the first time tried to start it.

Engine doesn't turn over when the plugs are in, when the plugs are out it does turn over.

Before you suggest anything, yes i have:
Checked the battery, its from a 2ltr BMW and still starts that.
Checked cables and connections, engine earths included

Is there a way to service the motor? Any common problems?

I realise I'll probably end up getting a new starter but I want to fix it this weekend!

Thanks

[yellowmonster]

First: what Mini (year) do you have?

Do you have one with the old inertia startermotor and a seperate solenoid mounted to the nearside innerwing, or do you have the later starter with the solenoid fitted onto the starter?

You mentioned the starter having no trouble with the plugs removed, but doing nothing (?) with the plugs in.
Doesn't it turn the engine over at all, or is it just sluggish?
Most problably then is worn brushes (are you sure the battery is ok?) and you'll need to overhaul the startermotor which isn't dear really.

[MOOSH]

Sorry it's a pre-engaged, 1988.
with the plugs in it's very sluggish

Yeh The batteries good, it started the 2ltr straight away!

Is there a how to of an overhaul?

[yellowmonster]

Remove the grille, disconnect the batterylead to the starter and remove the two bolts keeping it mounted.
Pull the startermotor out.
Once on a bench, if you will you can remove its cover and check the brushes yourself.
I find it easier to drop it at my local car-electronics guy who fixes altenators and starters for a living, pay him to do the job which gives me guarantee (!!...not that unimportant right?..)
Such a job will cost you some 50-60ish quid (depends on what needs replacing), and you'll have the guarantee it will last another 10 years or so..
That's not said about the rest of the Mini ....haha

[MOOSH]

Ha ha,

Brill, thanks for the advice. Will keep you up to date!

[MRA]

Could also be bushes.... or bearings tyhat the motor spindle run in, as they wear the motors internal resistance increases dramatically to the point that under load it will no longer turn your engine over..