944S2 cabrio ignition switch

[david.h]

My 1989 S2 Cabrio ignition switch seems to be getting a bit erratic. It has never been easy to pick up the place to raise/lower the hood, but it has always worked with a bit of patience! Now, however, when going to the "engage starter motor" final bit, occasionally nothing happens. Switch off, start again & so far - after a few goes, she starts.
All starter & battery terminals are tight, battery is great. Is it likely to be the switch, the solenoid or what??
David

[rallycross]

My 91 944 S2 is like that you need to wiggle the key in the barrel to get it to work on position 1.

On another subject would be really interested to hear some details of your marathon rally trips what was competing on the london to sydney like? (have read Some books about it sounds amazing)

[GC8]

Buy a new ignition switch. 964.613.012.00: £60:38 less discount plus VAT.

[Conian]

Do you have more than 1 key?

[david.h]

Yes, I'll try the other one for a bit!
D

[GC8]

david.h said:

Yes, I'll try the other one for a bit!
D

It may be ignition barrel-related somehow, but I suspect that the issue will be the ignition switch that fastens to the end of it. Its far from uncommon.

[david.h]

Well I've tried the other key & same problem! However I have listened to it a bit more closely!
What happens is the key goes to the Start position & There is a definite click from down by my left leg...so I think that power is getting to the starter. So I suppose the next is to get underneath or on a ramp[ & check the terminal at the starter.
What happens is that after a variable number of attempts the connection is made and off she goes. Moral don't stall at the lights...embarrassing clicking away until something happens (always has so far, but my nerves are getting frayed & my wife doesn't believe me when I say "it will work!!)

[Conian]

Solenoid gone on the starter motor?

[david.h]

Oh dear, that is what I thought it might be! I bet you can't get a solenoid & have to get a complete starter motor unit!!!!!!

[pauljmcnulty]

Why are you worrying about the starter motor? The ignition switch is a very common fault, seems to fit your symptoms and is cheap as chips to change.

[GC8]

Falling on deaf ears P-Mac.

[david.h]

If it is the back of the switch, why can I hear the solenoid operate??

[GC8]

You will find Clark's garage to be an invaluable tool.

http://www.clarks-garage.com/pdf-manual/elect-17.p...

http://www.clarks-garage.com/pdf-manual/elect-16.p...

[david.h]

Thanks GC8

[GC8]

Thats the printable .pdf version, which I have used to enable direct linking. Clark's page is framed and the HTML version is here: http://www.clarks-garage.com/ (rather obviously).

Its probably the best practical reference that youll find.

[david.h]

Thanks again!
Is the solenoid replaceable? It looks like it & I bet it is the same as something basic!
Bosch Part No anyone?

[pauljmcnulty]

Have a look on the alternate parts thread on PCGB, there's a link there that covers almost every cheaper option for common parts.