8 replies to this topic

[mk=john]

Hi, I have just done a clutch oil seal change etc, and I have a problem when trying to start the engine.

My car is a 998 cooper Mk1 (1966). I had to remove and replace the starter as part of the process for the clutch oil seal change.

When I turned the key, the motor was turning really slowly for a short time, and there was a squeel sound. I can only assume this was from the starter. After a few attempts, I put my hand on the starter, and it was quite warm.

In The Haynes manual, it says that it is possible for the starter to get stuck on the flywheel ring, and to turn the square shaft on the end of the starter to free it. I first turned the rod clockwise, and then anticlockwise and eventauuly it freed. But everytime I turn the key the same thing happens.

Turning on the headlights, they do not dim at all after leaving on for a few minutes.

Have i danagmd my starter, or installed it incorrectly?

Thanks

[fikus01]

possibly you could have fitted it 180dewgrees out but i swear they locate centrally so it shudnt matter!! the power lead shud be at the front of the car not by the engine!!

if its getting stuck the starter mite need the gear greasing or even the starter replacing!!

ooh on another point!! have u fitted ur engine earth strap??

[mk=john]

Hi, Engine earth strap is fillted, and the power lead is on the front, just like before I removed the starter. Its a mystery, please help!

[1984mini25]

You could try removing the starter motor and spark plugs, jacking up the front up so one wheel is off the ground and sticking it in 3rd or 4th, and see if the engine turns over freely, by turning the wheel that’s up in the air.

If it doesn't, it could mean the wrong length bolts have been used to hold either the slave cylinder or engine mount to the cover and are pressing against the flywheel/clutch assembly. Meaning the starter motor is being put under more load than normal causing it to get hot.

[mk=john]

I am sure the bolts are the same as I took off. If they are pressing against the assembly, would it be damaged in any way?

[fikus01]

i wont say its impossible!! just as a temporary just try removing the clutch cylinder bolts (im assuming its pre-verto) and if the coil is mounted to the fly housing remove the bolts for that too then see if the engine turns over!!

[Guess-Works.com]

As you've just removed the flywheel, and replace the crank seal, did you torque evertyhing back up, check endfloat on primary gear, etc etc

[mk=john]

Everything was tight as per the specifications. End float? The primary gear is held in place by the c-washer etc, right? Do the slave cylinder bolts go directly in line with a part of the flywheel close to the flywheel housing? Just asking this as I will also check the bolts.

[fikus01]

i think the bolts are even drilled and tapped through straight on top of the ring gear!!