| Author |
Message |
    
Robert Sublett (Rubisco98)
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 30, 2002 - 07:28 pm: | 
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Alrighty, here is the scenario. I've already done a search and didn't really come up with much. 96 Disco, having problems starting. I turn the key and hold it, nothing, then, ummph (for lack of a better word), it tries turning a smidge, keep holding the key over, and it tries again. I have had the problem before of the rig not starting in park and putting it in Neutral to start it right up. That isn't working anymore. Is this the brake switch down below or some switch in the shifting mechanism that I've heard about? Or is it a bad starter? I checked the voltage on my battery at rest and it was up around 13.2 or something like that. Suggestions would be very helpful.. Thank you in advance.. Robert |
Mike B.
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 30, 2002 - 08:15 pm: |
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Does the voltage drop when you turn the key and try to start the motor? Next, I'd put a voltage meter on the starter to see if you are getting current when you turn the key. I'd also check the positive and ground connections for the starter. You don't have to have the brake on to start your car, but it should be in Park (I'm assuming that you have an auto tr*nny). There is a lockout switch on the shifter mechanism. It could be bad.
Thanks,
Mike B. |
Jason Vance (Jason)
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 30, 2002 - 11:06 pm: |
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Since you try turning the engine over and nothing happens (at least for a few seconds), can you hear whether the solenoid is engaging? It should be a fairly obvious click (usually you don't hear it because the starter kicks in immediately after the solenoid has positioned the starter gear on the flywheel's ring gear). Do not confuse this click with that associated with stepping on the brake pedal (auto-t.ranny).
Anyway, the solenoid could be toast, and could be grounding out, leaving no juice south of the short for the starter to turn the engine over. |
Robert Sublett (Rubisco98)
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 30, 2002 - 11:13 pm: |
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I know it wasn't a problem solving step but I held my foot on the brake, key in the on position, and ran the gear shifter back and forth through all the gears a few times. Been starting right up tonight. Like I said, I know it's not a problem solving step but it may get me through to another day.. Keep coming with help.. Lord knows I need it.. Rob |
Dee Cantrell (Discodad)
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 30, 2002 - 11:27 pm: |
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Robert.
Some things to check in addition to what Mike posted. My positive cable went bad and it would kick over intermit. A quick test if that is the case you can not even jump it...
Look close at the condition of the Battery and the cables specifically for bulges, hard and non flexible wire. Look for green powder on the ends wher the wire cover is exposed. If there is excessive powder or buldges in the cable I would change it those cables get pretty crusty down by the exhaust
If no fault found with the cables check the charge of the battery. Take it into to a parts store and have them bench test it. if its over 3 years old its probably on its way out...
I was told if the charge drops below 50% the alternator will not be able to give it a full charge and it will always be playing catch-up that might be BS?
There is a quick check of the brake light switch. Step on the brake pedal if no rear brake light the switch is possible bad. If its a new switch you should hear two soft clicks when the pedal is depressed...
Also good advice to carry a spare switch I learned the hard way $$$. Its bitch to pay for a 200.00 tow for a 19.00 switch... Local Dealer has 10 to 15 DI a month towed in for faulty switches
I�ve had all 3 go on my 97 DI the battery and the positive cable was rotted out the battery... Just waiting on the alternator to go...
If you need a new Battery I would go with a Spiral Wound Gel, There are two types out there the Optima's or clone�s such as the Orbit. There are several other knock off gels out there but all are made by Interstate I believe...
If you replace your batt cable get a good quality and reuse the heat shield or go with a LR replacement one...
I tried cutting the end off the postive and using a new universal clamp i was in a pinch, that lasted about a month... IMO shortcuts usaly cost twice as much...
Good luck |
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