[Mgs] Non-start

The Roxter rocknatural at gmail.com
Wed Feb 20 14:00:48 MST 2008


Max Heim wrote:
> Before I take advantage of this break in the rain to go take a look at it, I
> thought I'd solicit some input.
>
> Patient is a 66 MGB with 4-synchro trans and late model starter. Symptom is
> (with key in starting position) series of rapid clicks from under the
> bonnet, but no turnover. This is a new one for me -- I am more used to
> getting either instant fire-up or nothing (with occasional sluggish turnover
> when the battery was tired).
>
> Lights work. Fuel pump is functioning as normal. Alternator is new (2
> weeks). Battery tested good when alternator was replaced, but has been under
> a great deal of stress lately (haven't we all?). Electrics as a whole
> functioning about as well as could be expected, being parked outside in a
> wet winter.
>
> I am assuming that the starter solenoid is the source of the clicking. I
> suppose the question is why the starter motor is not turning. Insufficient
> voltage could be one reason, but that would surprise me, as in the past it
> has slowly rolled over even when the battery was scarcely strong enough to
> tell that the headlights were switched on.
Probably a bad connection at the battery terminals. Enough juice to move the solenoid, but then the starter tries to engage, using the juice, so the solenoid disengages. Clicketty-click.

Lead oxide looks just like lead, but it's a poor conductor. Scrape the terminals and connectors until they're bright.

-The Roxter
--


More information about the Mgs mailing list