12 replies to this topic

[samt88]

Just today my mini (998cc City '89) refuses to start without a push start. It also occasionally cuts out if I don't keep the revs up. When running though I can't see any difference - any ideas?

[creakyjaws5533]

have you got points?

[samt88]

Got what sorry?

[KernowCooper]

Points inside the distributor ? or electronic distributor in a 89 car

[creakyjaws5533]

I had a similar problems with mine and the points needed setting again also is it unleaded head or not as the rev dying could be the timing being set different as most lead replacement have octane boosters in again I problem I've had in my 89'

[samt88]

Ok thanks guys I'll have a look at those - realise it may be something as simple as the battery has gone!

[creakyjaws5533]

If you can its worth changing to an electronic ignition module inside the distributor about £30 and the best thing you can get for a mini

[Barman]

Logic tells us that if it will start with a push but not on the starter it is an voltage problem...

 

Either the battery is knackered or there is an earthing issue...

 

Nothing to do with points, timing or electronic ignition....

[samt88]

Cheers barman I think that's the problem...I may have left the lights on though and drained it so I'm not sure! How long a drive should be required do the alternator can charge up the battery enough to start the thing?

[Barman]

Cheers barman I think that's the problem...I may have left the lights on though and drained it so I'm not sure! How long a drive should be required do the alternator can charge up the battery enough to start the thing?

 

Everybody says it will take forever... In my experience, driving with no load (lights, etc.) for 10 -20 mins will put enough back in the battery (assuming it is in good condition) to get a start the next time you need it...

[creakyjaws5533]

Surely if the points are out enough and surfaces are not giving a good spark or if the timing is out as well that could cause it to not start as that happened with mine i fitted electronic ignition and nothing else done it started fine first time.

[Barman]

Surely if the points are out enough and surfaces are not giving a good spark or if the timing is out as well that could cause it to not start as that happened with mine i fitted electronic ignition and nothing else done it started fine first time.

 

Those things are true...

 

But the OP states that it will start with a 'bump'.... bump starting just removes the (high current drain) starter motor from the process thus allowing a weak battery to provide enough spark to get the engine to fire...

[samt88]

Was just the simple issue of a bad battery - cheers barman!