In a message dated 1/23/02 8:23:33 AM Eastern Standard Time,
super_racenut@juno.com writes:
> I have a basic electrical question and I'm looking for a logic check. A
> while ago my battery came lose and dipped over. A bit of acid came out
> and burned the battery cable insulation. I was able to start it so I
> basically forgot about it until now. The reason is the fact that I can't
> start it. I put in a new starter and was able to get it going a couple
> of time yesterday but this morning no go. Could corrosion in the battery
> cable not allow enough current to the starter to start the engine?? It
> will engage I hear the solenoid and the gear hitting the flywheel but the
> engine won't turn over. I'm baffled and to broke to take it to a pro.
> Any help is greatly appreciated.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Corrosion is the enemy of any electrical connection. A high amp draw like a
starter needs a good circuit. It is possible that the corrosion caused by
the acid is the culprit, but there are many other possible causes that should
all be checked.
Make sure the connections to the battery are clean and tight. Remove both
cables and wire brush any corrosion off, then coat them with vaseline before
putting them back on the battery. Now, don't forget the other ends of the
cables. Check the other ends for clean, tight connections at the ground and
at the starter relay. Check the cable from the relay to the starter.
When I bought my Midget, the cables at the relay were loose. The relay was
melted because of the loose connections.
Lastly, check the ground strap from the engine to the frame. This is often
missed. The current has to be able to get from the starter back to the
battery ground. If the ground strap is loose or missing, that current has to
find another path back to the battery. I've heard of overheated choke cables
causing problems because the ground strap was missing.
Two more things, take the battery to an auto supply store and ask them to
check it. This is usually free. While you are there, buy a battery hold
down!!! :-)
Allen Hefner
Philly Region SCCA Rally Steward
'77 MG Midget
'75 MG Midget "The Project"
'92 Mitsubishi Expo LRV Sport
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