Starting problem 4.3 precat Griff

[gopher]

I have done a search for this but have not found anything which matches my problem.

Car has been stood for about 4 weeks, outside but with a fitted cover. Went to start this morning but no joy. There's power to the ignition, light dim when turning key, sounds like starter motor is trying to engage but just get a continuous click for a few seconds then the clicking stops.

Sounds a bit like gears trying to engage but slipping, but electrical than mechanical IYKWIM.

Anyone have any ideas?

[Mr MoJo]

Very low battery ?? Just enough to give ignition lights, but not enough to start up engine. Happens alot to cars sat on our forecourt for a long time if they're not started regularly enough.

Hope it's nothing more serious

Simon

Edited by Mr MoJo on Saturday 29th November 10:15

[gopher]

I didn't consider it was as simple as that - mainly due to the fact that all things electrical still worked. Should the volt meter go up when just the ignition is on or only when started (never thought to look previously) because that does not move hardly at all ATM?

[Mr MoJo]

From my limited knowledge, and from what you've said, I think you've found your problem

eta Not sure about the voltmeter tbh but if it's very low I would imagine that confirms it.

Edited by Mr MoJo on Saturday 29th November 10:26

[gopher]

I'll charge the battery and give it another go, thanks.

Paul

[Onzlouk]

Your battery is flat.....Jump leads are your friend, if your going to leave it that long either get it on a battery conditioner or get yourself one of those jump start machines.

[Hoover.]

:nod: as they said

[Mr MoJo]

An Accumate battery conditioner would be highly recommended if you're leaving for long periods of time

[bigdods]

clicking will be the solenoid on the starter throwing, then falling back then throwing again...and repeat. Usually caused by a flat ish battery. Enough power to throw the solenoid, but not enough juice to turn the starter. The engaged solenoid draw power reducing battery voltage so solenoid clicks back. Once disengaged battery gathers itself together, voltage goes up solenoid engages again... and you get a click...click...click with no starter.

[grahamw48]

Just get the Mrs. to push you down the road, drop the clutch into second and away you go...wife may be flat on her face or still hanging on to the rear though.

[gopher]

bigdods said:

clicking will be the solenoid on the starter throwing, then falling back then throwing again...and repeat. Usually caused by a flat ish battery. Enough power to throw the solenoid, but not enough juice to turn the starter. The engaged solenoid draw power reducing battery voltage so solenoid clicks back. Once disengaged battery gathers itself together, voltage goes up solenoid engages again... and you get a click...click...click with no starter.

That describes the issue perfectly thanks, it was the fact that all other things electrical seemed to work that threw me, my only previous experience of a flat battery was that everything failed.

A good charge and a run out yesterday seems to have done it good, just need to see if it holds the charge or not. Thanks all.