starting problem

[tigertrout]

I am having trouble starting my 964.I just get a click when turning the key. Eventually after turning the key about 5 times it will start.Is it time for a new starter motor or could it be anything else?

 

[Steve Brookes]

More than likely your DME relay - try a new one - about 20 quid from an OPC.

 

[tim_haskins]

I thought the DME relay controlled the fuel pump.

My guess is the starter motor. Normally the solnoid sticks and doesnt fire the gear into the flywheel which results in the same problem you have! You may be able to get it repaired/rebuilt.

Tim

 

[Dave Wilkinson]

I agree with Tim - the DME relay controls the power supply to the DME and the fuel pump but it won't stop the starter from cranking the engine. Mind you, a lousy battery will!!! This time of year the battery suffers really badly with the cold temperatures so you might find it's time for a new one. The starter motor takes a huge amount of current to throw the starter gear into the ring gear on the flywheel. If the battery is down on power it just doesn't have enough oomph (technical term!!) to do it.

Why not pop the car into Halfrauds or similar and get them to do a battery test. 10 minutes investment could save you some pennies.

Regards

Dave

 

[Steve Brookes]

I assumed the engine was cranking but not starting - should have read the post properly [8|]. In which case I'd go with a battery check first - less work and less cost.

 

[tigertrout]

Thanks for your help.I have fitted a new dme relay and the battery has a conditioner on it so that is ok.I asume it must be the starter motor.

 

[iangray100]

Just because the battery has a conditioner ( charger) on it doesn't mean its OK . You could have a dead cell and it will charge but never hold a full 12V with max amps to start a car. Seen this happen before. Either get a pro to check the battery or a check each cell with a Acid condition tester ( most car shop do them - like a pipette ) to see if each cell is even.
Happened to my Discovery a few weeks ...fully charges but wouldn't hold the current. Very low cell showed up on the acid tester. New battery purchased and the old one was only 37months old !!! Cold damp weather kills off batteries

 

[peanut]

I believe the starter is pre-engaged which means it is always engaged with the flywheel.
It has a clutch which engages whilst cranking and disengages when the engine spins up.

It sounds like a bad earth . I would get a jump start lead and attach it to your earth terminal of your battery and attach the other end to your engine block (preferably on the starter ) if it then spins ok you know you need to clean or replace your chassis to engine earth strap.

Also worth removing and cleaning the leads on your starter motor check the small cable connections too