Non starter...

[RWX3L]

1600m

I can't seem to get the car to turn over...
Tried a battery booster..
Taken the starter off and had this tested...it's ok.
Changed the solenoid, as this was suspected...
Checked over all leads, fuses etc.
Battery is holding a charge of 11v...
Battery is ok to power wipers, lights etc.

When key is turned the starter turns very slowly, not enough oomph to kick the engine into life... I suspect that the starter may still be the cause, although it's been given the all clear on the bench (by an independent)

Your help and advice appreciated....

[Adrian@]

Clutching at straws here ...but renew the earth to the engine/gearbox.
Adrian@

[Astacus]

Possibly a dodgey earth, either on the battery itself or maybe engine earth strap?

[sunbeam alpine]

11V seems a bit low surely?

I often have this problem - various classics about the place which don't get enough use. It's always the battery. They'll often power the lights or wipers, but turning the engine over draws a lot more.

Have you tried a new/different battery?

[Astacus]

Astacus said:

Possibly a dodgey earth, either on the battery itself or maybe engine earth strap?

Rats! beaten to it!

[RWX3L]

I cheked the leads and engine strap... It was a quick check over... I'll roll the car out the garage tomorrow and give the straps a longer look and check.

Thanks for your help.

I may get a new battery as well. I don't think 11v is good enough.

Thanks

[thegamekeeper]

Try jumping it from a running vehicle, if it turns over at normal speed its the battery. Batteries have amps in them as well as volts

[heightswitch]

a 12v battery should give a static reading of approx 14.4V

Get the battery drop tested to see if you have a dead cell.
N.

[RWX3L]

I'll also look at the battery.... 11v is low... Not sure what the ampage is. Better get a meter on it.

[Loubaruch]

Neil is correct. If you only have 11 volt at your battery without a load then look no further your battery is history.

The 12 volts is a nominal value and a good battery will measure 13 - 14 volts.

It may be worth giving it a long charge but Lead/Acid batteries once they have been discharged for a while, seldom recover.

The fact that your lights etc. function is not relevant. Lights only draw a few amps, starter motors under load could require 80 Amps, you need a decent battery to supply that.

Edited by Loubaruch on Wednesday 25th May 22:45

[RWX3L]

it was the battery.... it was holding a reasonable charge, but not enough guts to get the starter turning.... my booster is also dead!

new battery fitted, earth strap will get replaced next weekend...

filled with fuel, and back to enjoying the M again.

thanks everyone.