Starting problem

[wilkie]

Tried to start the van after about a month and it wouldn't turn over. Jump started OK. I put the battery on charge over the weekend thinking it was that simple but still nothing when I tried it this evening. I put a volt meter across the battery and took a reading of 13.6volts. Do you think this is a battery problem or should I look elsewhere? The battery looks old and I have a new leisure battery which I could try but was unsure if this could damage it.

Your advise would be gratefully recieved.

Thanks

 

[ProfessorWheeto]

When you say doesn't turn over, does it make any noise?

Sometimes the starter binds up and you need to put it in gear, 3rd usually works, rock it back and forth, back into neutral and then try starting.

The other common fault is a sticky starter solenoid. Sometimes it'll eventually throw if you keep turning the key, the other method that works is to tap the solenoid with a hammer. Ideally with someone else holding the ignition in the start position.

It wouldn't hurt to check all the related wiring, so loose battery connections, loose connections on the starter motor etc

Only other thing I can think of its a worn starter motor bush, sometimes this causes the starter motor to bind and it needs the extra oomph of a bump start to overcome the resistance. You'll know if this is the case as the starter motor will sound uneven and laboured when it eventually turns over.

 

[angus]

Thanks for the answer to my similar question proff....
can one get the old bush out without taking the engine out? Can you access it by just removing the starter itself?
ta!

 

[ProfessorWheeto]

Yeah you can although its a bit fiddly! The bush itself sits in the bellhousing where the shaft of the starter motor sticks through.

You need something to grab the bush and pull it back through the hole towards you. I think some people choose to tap it and then thread a bolt in.