5 replies to this topic

[VinnyS]

Hi All,

 

I've recently refitted my engine in my 1996 SPi after taking it out to deal with some rust and a broken engine steady on the bulkhead. When it was out I had the starter motor repaired as the wire from the solenoid had rusted through.

 

Since refitting I haven't been able to get it to start. When I turn the key I can hear the solenoid clicking but it won't turn the motor. The starter motor turns fine when its out of the engine. (I've taken it out of the engine and used a jump-lead to earth it to the engine block and turned the key and its working that way)

I'm sure I've reconnected the wiring loom correctly as everything seems to be working - headlights etc

 

I've checked the earth by earthing the starter directly to the battery with a long jump-lead but no change in the symptoms. 

 

Am I right in assuming its not the starter relay as what I've tested so far is working?

 

I've also replaced the battery as the battery light it comes on when I try to turn the engine over but that hasn't changed anything. 

 

Apart from replacing the starter motor next I'm all out of ideas so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

 

Vinny 

Edited by VinnyS, 15 December 2023 - 03:52 PM.

[bpirie1000]

Spi are a difficult beast....

Rely o vacuumed lines. My thoughts would be to check all connections again. Inc crank position sensor.

[Steam]

From your description it sounds like you have no engine earth, perhaps you missed connecting the engine to body earth strap.

[coopertaz]

you stated you had removed starter and connected jump lead for earth to block and motor spins when ignition operated so that would point to engine negative ok to battery and start wiring ok to solenoid. but also check negative connection for security and corrosion, charge light will be on before engine starts as alternator not charging so ignore that. if engine not cranking at all, and assuming battery is fully charged try pushing car slightly in fourth gear to ensure first engine actually rotates! this will also put starter to another section of ring gear if some teeth are damaged

[bpirie1000]

Any luck yet Vinnie?


What voltage are you getting at the starter pre solenoid.?

If getting anything about 12.4v then.... if lower...also make sure that the positive cable has not melted through exhaust or similar...

****Next option****

Take the plugs out and put some wd40 down the bores.
Remove the starter and try to turn the engine over with a screwdriver in the ring gear?







Make sure that the engine is still free and not stuck. Also let's you check the teeth on the ring gear.

[VinnyS]

Hi Everyone,

 

Thanks for all the replies. Turns out the engine had seized (queue absolute panic!!) after being left with no oil for about 6 weeks while I tidied up and painted the engine bay. I followed the advice from a previous post a few years back and got it unstuck thank god.

 

Link if anyone needs it: https://www.theminif...e-engine-seize/

 

I ended up taking out the plugs and spraying some WD40 and leaving it for a few hours. I also took out the rad and popped a 33mm socket onto the crank and gently freed it up a few mil in each direction until it popped free. Then used a racket on the socket and spent 10 minutes turning it over manually before turning it over on the starter motor. Turning over fine now. Hopefully will get it started and running in the new year. 

 

Vinny