Sunshine means my Clipper won't start!

Hi,

   Im looking for some advice regarding my 91 Clipper auto. Basically if my cars been sitting in the sun or if Ive been driving and the engine was at running temp it can be a right g*t to restart! Basically I can turn the key, hear a click and then nothing!

I got told it was my solenoid sticking on the starter motor because its next to the manifold where it gets hot and so I need a relay kit from Bosch. On further inspection its already had one fitted! Doh!

Anyone experienced this too? I've found lots of information on various places across the net but all generally suggest 'get a relay kit!'

Is there anything else I can replace, fit or even hit with a hammer to get it working?! :dontknow:

Its not a major issue but can be when youre stuck at a petrol pump cursing and having to turn key 50 times to get it started can be annoying and embaressing!

Any help is much appreciated!

Hi
   Could be the solenoid , battery in good condition ? suppling at least 13volts ? the click is the solenoid receiving its 12+volts but then not able to push the switch forward and make the starter turn .
Quick test =next time it does it put a multi meter [cheap from argos] on the small wire to the solenoid get some one to operate the ignition switch - 12+volts showing ? yes , solenoid faulty, no , keep looking . ignition switch poor conection etc .
Also you have an auto !! and somewhere you will have a switch that prevents the car from starting unless the gear stick is in the correct position [park and or netural springs to mind] . This may also be giving you problems , find it check it clean it then try again

Good luck …

^Cheers matey!^

I just tried my multimeter across the battery terminals - 12.38v with the engine off then goes upto 13.8v when the engines running. As soon as you turn the key one click though it drops to about 10-11v. Crapped out battery possibly?
I charged it the other day because it was at about 80% and I thought it may help. I must admit it did seem to help somewhat but then again its such a temperamental(sp?) problem its hard to say really!

I havent tried the multimeter when the solenoid plays up yet (its been good recently - touch wood!) but will do and I'll post up the results.

Any other suggestions or hints anyone? Much appreciated everyone!


On another note - where can I find out about events coming up for the summer? …(not trying to be big headed!) but my Golf is great and I want to take it to some shows to get more ideas on how to make it even better and have a chin wag with other drivers!

Sounds like your starter motor may be playing up reason for this is that most batterys fail in cold weather as the chemical reaction slows down. Also my car has the same problem and find only when it is realy hot the starter sticks and giving it a whack brings it back to life. May be a simple wiring fault but I doubt it.

Cheers
Craig.