If it is slow cranking then check the connections in the heavy current
circuit first. On my MGBs I do this by connecting one probe from a
voltmeter to the hot post (not the connector) of the battery and the other
probe to the hot post on the solenoid. Crank the cold engine (disconnect
the coil to prevent it starting) and note the voltage. Do the same from the
ground post of the battery to the starter body, and for those with twin 6v
batteries between the battery posts that carry the link cable as well.
Ideally you are looking for no more than two or three tenths of a volt in
each circuit, less in the link cable. If the total volt drops are getting
close to 1v then it is worth investigating the individual connections. Also
check the charging voltage at the battery terminals, with minimal electrical
load at a fast idle you should see around 15v in winter temps. I assume a
dynamo, these drop off load at idle and have quite a low output anyway, if
you daily driving has much crawling in traffic with everything on, or is
very short, this will result in the battery not being at a peak next
morning. MGBs are good starters when in good tune, I have no reason to
believe that MGAs are any different. Unless the battery really is weak
problems elsewhere may well mean that whilst replacing it improves things
initially, you will rapidly get the same symptoms.
Happy New Year,
PaulH.
----- Original Message -----
From: <WLHoss@aol.com>
To: <mgs@autox.team.net>
Sent: Wednesday, December 31, 2003 7:44 PM
Subject: MGA Battery Choice
> Now that cold weather is finally setting in, I am starting to have trouble
> firing up my 59 MGA on mornings. I may well have some tuning issues to
take
> care of ...
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