Starter problem, perhaps

[dave36]

made it all the way up to stone and back and what happens, starter very occasionally kicks in, but very slow as if battery flat - though charge level meters ok!
tried turning ignition on and putting fly lead to starter direct from bat pos, no effect at all. Solenoid still makes hefty clic when attempting to start by key.
Question is, is problem down to stiff or broken starter? if it is can it be fixed DIY? if not what options are there for replacement on the 1300 xflow?
thanks in advance
Dave

[IanA]

My next step would be to check the battery and engine earths. Then I'd short out the solenoid with a hefty spanner and see if the engine turns normally. If it does, it's the solenoid. If it doesn't it's the starter or its lead from the solenoid. Draw requisite replacement from stores and fit...
Cheers
Ian

[dave36]

Thanks Ian
Earths recently replaced and added to, connections checked and metered
tried shorting solenoid - no effect, added 2nd battery(jump leads) and motor cranked a little, but very very slow - so it looks like im in the market for a starter or a pair of strong legs to push yellow every time I need her!

[IanA]

Yes of course I have a spare starter to fit your engine. Just as you have a spare gearbox to fit mine !!!
Cheers
Ian

[whackman]

have you checked the motor brushes ? they may seem o.k.
but dont be fooled if you takem out and they look as if theres plenty of meat left on them,when compared to a new set you'll see the difference ....also you can use the oppertunity to clean the crap from the motor

[dave36]

Thanks for that, did strip the starter today - to put it mildly, it's shagged, the stator looks like its been soaked in acid, only one brush has any meat on it, the motor is really full of crap and wet and all the springs are rusted away or weak. Prior to stripping I checked the float on the shaft, allmost 1/4", so fair to say the motor is not worth repairing.
Next course of action is to try and sort one locally (two pals searching garages and sheds) or travel up to Oxford and meet Ian (that gearbox is yours anyway Ian, no-one else is getting it)

[IanA]

S'right then. Unfortunately I don't get west much these days. Could always use the Romford Brewery delivery method- remember those ads with the barrels via giant catapult???
Cheers
Ian

[dave36]

Thanks for all the help, sorted now - local hot rod champion (source for anything escort) called in a favour - new starter suddenly appeared for £20, fitted in 10 minutes and all running fine