Hot start

[Davey S]

Guys, bit of help required.
I think I've got the classic hot start problem.
Generally, when its been out on a run of 30 mins or more when I turn the key, all lights up fine, fuel pump is ok, but when I turn the key - not a sausage.
I also get feedback through the speakers.
Does the feedback simply suggest its electrical - ie the mod-wise relay would fix - or could it still be a poorly starter motor. Tried turning on the lights to check for dimming and there's none.

The only other possible explanation is that the immobiliser hasn't kicked off properly since i've been having a few alarm/immobiliser issues - but surely the fuel pump wouldn't prime if that was the case? or could it still be the cause? Do not want an embarrasing petrol station/work incident!

Warranty runs out next week so need to get sorted asap.

Otherwise I'm in love with her big style

[SiH]

Sounds like the old 'hot starter motor' to me. Anyone know what the life expectancy of a starter motor actually is?

[manek]

My experience of four years' of Chimaera ownership suggests you should think of starter motors as consumables. If you get 18 months, you're doing well, a year is more likely.

[Davey S]

my car's only done 7500 miles though, and gets used twice a week on average.

[Size Nine Elm]

Top tip...

Get bottle of water.
Open bonnet.
Pour water on drivers side between 3rd and 4th exhaust manifold pipes (careful they're not still too hot).

Start car.

The solenoid which engages the starter motor gets too hot and won't engage - a bit of cooling and off you go.

The electrical sounds is probably the fuel pump causing a little RF interference.

[parrot of doom]

The relay mod that modwise sent me suggests that its not normally the starter, but the power to the starter, which is supplied by a tiny little cable that gets very hot, and is unable to supply the voltage needed.

I haven't had the problem, and haven't been able to install the kit from modwise because my wiring is very different for some reason, but before you buy a new starter motor I suggest you check this out.

[chimleic]

Had exactly the same problem. Engage the ignition,the electrics work fine, but not a peep from the starter.

Was ready to pay £££'s for a new starter, but thought I'd try a 'Hot Start' kit from Mod-Wise first. Never had the problem again, even after long toastie runs. Consequently, I definately think that the heat affects the electrical supply to the starter (rather than the starter itself).

The kit is easy to install (all in the footwell) and is cheap - so definately should be your first option before taking the car into a mechanic.

Mod-Wise certainly gets my thumbs-up recommendation. Will be getting the brighter lights and remote boot opening kits in due time (after I've sorted my leaky radiator, dodgy door and upgraded my suspension to Nitrons).

[colinrob]

I too had the hot start problem got the modwise kit, still a hot start problem, got a new starter, still a hot start problem, it turned out to be the immoboliser, if you've only got a week left on the warranty get it fixed quick (the immobiliser has seperate relays for the starter and pump, that is why the pump will prime but starter not turn) e-mail me if you want any further information.

[Davey S]

thanks colinrob - i'll get in touch with the dealer tomorrow. they've been good so far.
think i'll be getting the mod wise kit in any case plus a few other bits.