Starting problem

[S7Paul]

My car has always started very easily, but now it's suddenly begun to take much longer cranking before it bursts into life. I feel that sooner or later I'm going to get stuck somewhere, either because it won't start or because I'll have flattened the battery.

Has anyone experienced a similar problem, and if so, how did you fix it?

PS. A few months ago I had trouble getting through the MoT due to emissions, and in fixing it I replaced the plugs, leads, coil, distributor cap, rotor arm and ignition module. At about the same time it also had a new stepper motor. I also made sure the AFM & throttle position sender were adjusted correctly. Consequently, I would hope that none of the above are at fault.

[Earl Grey]

This happend to me . but may not be the same problem . i had a real big problem with Intermotor parts causing problems. im just about to replace it all. i will let you know how i get on.

[bigdods]

Maybe its just cranking a bit too slow. I had this a while back. The battery was on its last legs so I thought that would solve it. Replaced but although improved the problem was still there. Ended up replacing the starter motor and was amazed at how fast the new one cranks.

[S7Paul]

Thanks for the suggestions.

Earl Grey - I'll check where the various parts came from (though I did try to use OE stuff where possible).

ETA: I can confirm that no Intermotor parts were used, mostly Lucas. The Stepper Motor came from Paddock, and was in a box marked Britpart.

bigdods - I'll check the battery first (it's hooked up to an Optimate all the time I'm not driving but I suppose that still doesn't guarantee that the battery is fine, especially as I don't know when it was last replaced).

ETA: I've just disconnected the Optimate and the battery is reading 13.08V.

Edited by S7Paul on Tuesday 30th September 22:42