8 replies to this topic

[CK's mini]

I have rebuilt my 998 engine but the starter motor struggles to turn it over, I have to give it a helping hand with a ratchet on the crank pulley but once it starts spinning it keeps going. The engine seems quite normal to turn by hand with the ratchet it just seems the starter hasn't got the power.

It is a verto A+ engine (I think its classed as the eco high compression engine with the flat top pistons).

Is it time for a new starter? If so do I pay the extra for a geared one? Or can I just replace the brushes in the one I have?

Any advice is much appreciated. Thanks 😊

[sonscar]

Before spending money I would check all the battery and earth connection for tightness and cleanliness.Running an assortment of dodgy classics I have never found the need to buy a geared starter although they do seem popular.Steve..

[whistler]

As mentioned, check or even add a good earth from engine to bodywork. The other possibility is that the solenoid is not making good enough contact with the starter. i have had this happen. Changed the solenoid and the starter spins great under initial load.

[MiniMadRacer]

Check you are getting 12 Volts at the Starter too

[sledgehammer]

I would get the battery out  - make sure it's fully charged

 

carefully connect jump leads to starter & engine block (close to starter)

 

is it turning over ok ?

 

if yes , it's probably resistance in the main wiring (usually earth) or solenoid contacts are rough
 

I put a second earth on some engines , just because they seem prone to corrosion / loosening on the mini

also try a jump lead body to block

 

if no it is probably starter , or tight engine

Edited by sledgehammer, 04 April 2021 - 09:22 AM.

[CK's mini]

Thanks for the replies, I'll try and have a play this week 🙂

[Magneto]

Did you set the piston ring gap correctly?

[Vanman20]

Are you sure it's the starter struggling ?
Incorrect ignition timing can give the same symptoms

[steeley]

Does the battery and stater turn the engine well with the plugs out or still struggle