18 replies to this topic

[Ethel]

I'd go with lrostoke - if it struggles to catch, check the condition of the yellow/white that runs from the solenoid to the coil. If it starts but dies as soon as you release the key it's likely to be the pink 'n white - though it could be the yellow/white earthing a bit at the solenoid end.

[Cooperman]

Like you I now always remove that 'effing pink wire' and fit a 12v coil. I've had Minis for many years and they start well with a 12 v coil and there is no risk of yet another burnt out loom. Until you've had it happen, or been asked to fix one, you can't believe the mess that stupid wire can cause.
Are we seriously saying that only Minis with 9 v coils start well? Of course not. They all start well so long as the ignition system is in good order. There was no need for the fitting of a 9 v coil to overcome problems that won't exist on a properly maintained car, it just created another potential problem, one that at commercial rates can easily cost at least £250 to sort out plus towing costs.

[dklawson]

Yes... thanks Charlie. I knew the direction the thread would take.
Dilligaf, I know, I know. However, like I said, I hate to see people spend money they don't have to. (And for the record, I believe I talk about "easier starting" not "starting problems")
Cooperman & Dilligaf, I understand the problems with ballast resistor (pink) wires. That's why I frequently suggest that rather than replace the coil and rewire... rewire and fit an external ballast resistor. It is simply less expensive.

Ballast resistor: (7+ GBP)
http://www.holden.co...m&pCode=030.009
vs
a new coil at about 15+ GBP depending on how much you want to spend. If your car has a ballast ignition system... why replace the most expensive part (the coil)? Run a white wire, add the ballast resistor and you've addressed your concerns about the melting pink wire and done it for a lower investment than replacing the coil.

Edited by dklawson, 06 January 2012 - 02:10 AM.

[dklawson]

So you would rather spend 15+ GBP to fix what you feel is a problem instead of 7+? OK. Do as you wish.

My external ballast resistor recommendation is not a "now" thing. I have mentioned it to you before in previous threads as well as earlier posts in this thread.