Starter noise - not working

[cwatts]

Hi

Thought you might be able to help me with a starter issue. When I turn the get I get a chattering type noise from the vicinity of the starter - engine doesn't crank. So just use the hand crank, but am getting old and tired so would like to have the luxury of starting with a key. Original wiring around the starter, very messy so have a feeling (based on nothing more than hope really) its an electrical gremlin. Any thoughts?

[Semper_Dad]

Definitely start with cleaning things up. All terminal and connections should be checked. Sounds like the solenoid is trying to kick in but just doesn't have enough juice to make it. Over time the wiring develops a resistance and not enough current can get to the starter.

Hard to explain in text bu I'll try.
When you turn the key to the start position voltage has to travel from the battery, to the start switch back to the starter solenoid. This distance can bit a bit overwhelming for the old wiring. A "quick start" kit can help but a good cleanup isn't a bad idea. The electrical part of the key switch is also a weak link in the system. "Quick Start" kits have been discussed many times before and you should be able to find many threads about them.

You can test out the starter's ability by simply "hotwiring" or jumpering the solenoid. Be careful!, make sure the car is out of gear and emergency brake is on. Keep the key off as you don't really need to start the car, just see to see whether the starter will turn the motor. An old style remote start switch will make this operation easier and safer.




If your diagnosic wiring is still intact, you can also jumper pins 50 and 30 on the plug. Again,..... out of gear, brake on, ignition key off. ...and only long enough to see if the starter fully engages.


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[cwatts]

Semper - many thanks

[Ian Epperson]

Starter chattering? I thinks you need a new starter. Definitely do the tests that Semper suggests, just in case.

Pulling the starter isn't a tough job. Make sure the battery is disconnected before you start and verify what is wired to what. If I remember correctly, the Thing starter is the same as an auto-stick bug, and if you get the bushing correct, you can even use a standard bug starter in a pinch.
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[Ian Epperson]

Oh, also check to ensure you're not in peril and tripping your DPS.
_________________
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[Wildthings]

Anything that causes a low voltage at the starter can cause this. Remove and clean both ends of your hot and ground cables. If the cable ends have been replaced with the crappy "temporary" replacement type, buy new cables. No use fighting old crap that will never work as well as new. Also check remove and clean your transmission ground strap, and replace if at all questionable.

[mtwrench540]

low voltage was mentioned but not checked! should have been first thing done!!
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[cwatts]

Hi Folks - problem resolved....

Charged the battery, cleaned all the terminals etc but problem still there... took it into town this morning to the auto electrician and battery dead - swapped for a new one and starts with the key first time. So again spot on with the advice - you guys are great and the assistance is much appreciated.