Starting problem

[Alps]

ok this is a weird one!

try to start the car, all the lights go dim, clock even resets, like theres a big power drain, no turn over or anything

try again a few minutes later and it starts first time!

could this be the starter on its way out? how can I test?

cheers

[kniterider]

sounds like the starter to me, if it started ok after a min or so with out dimming the lights/resetting clocks then id say the solenoid might be sticking now and then maybe shorting out?, the wouldnt be any harm in taking your starter motor off, stripping it and giving it a good clean etc, then re trying it... if its cured then youve saved your self some cash, if not go buy a new/recon one and fit it!!

 

[Alps]

is it an easy job taking the starter off?

[ronnie'C']

Sounds more like you have got a dodgy electrical connection somewhere, maybe starter motor but could be anything to do with the battery aswell.

[D Owen]

is it an easy job taking the starter off?

My starter motor makes a terrible noise when it turns - I have taken it out and sprayed it with WD40 but after a week or two the noise returns.

To answer your question - itÂ’s not too bad to take it off. Of what I can remember there are two (or three) bolts that hold it in place and can be a little difficult to get to but once they are off then its quite simple to disconnect it from the battery (by the way disconnect it first )

[Sugar79]

Have you checked your battery earth??

My old Xr2i done that, trying to fit a alarm and my silly mate forgot to do the neg up properly on the battery, tried starting the car and all my lights came on and dimmed it was a massive power drain, matches what your saying is happening to yours.