intermittent starting trouble

[AxtellZ]

Hi all,

here's the deal. 10/74 260Z with 72 SU's, otherwise stock.

The last month or so, when i turn the key to "start", i get an audible "click" from the engine compartment, but the starter does not activate. Sometimes it works the first try, other times i have to turn the key 3,5, or 10 times before it kicks..

I've cleaned/greased/tightened the battery terminals, as well as the starter connections- sometimes it behaves, others it doesn't.

As I haven't had a helper with me, i haven't been able to turn the key AND listen to see whether the "click" is from the starter or from some other relay or such.

Any ideas?? Could it be the starter itself going bad, or more likely i have missed some corrosion in the elecrical system somewhere?

Thanks for any ideas!, Jeremiah Axtell 73,74

[hmsports]

The clicking is most likely your starter solenoid - the smaller cylindrical object on the top of the starter. This acts as a relay to send the high voltage to the starter.

When you have this, and you've checked all the wires, sounds like you need a new starter. You can take it out and have AutoZone (or a reputable company - sorry personal opinion here) run a test on it.

[AxtellZ]

Thanks- i assume i could hook up a remote start to test the starter, correct??

I believe i have also read that the solenoid is about $55, while the starter/solenoid combo is maybe $65-70- i havn't checked yet, but does that sound possible? I'll keep everyone posted when i discover the answer (assuming it starts so i can get home from work:stupid: )

Oh, and assuming its the solenoid- it "clicks" on when the key is turned to start, then a milder click when the key is relased to "on"- sound correct? Which would be more likely, that ot enough voltage is transmitting through, or that the starter or solenoid is bad?

Thanks again!

[240znz]

Your starter motor is about to die.

What has happened is common. The current flows to the coils in your starter motor via a set of brushes. These brushes arc to the (forgotten what it is called...stator...cumulator..it was long time ago???) coils via a small area. It's this small copper area that is on it's way out or some of the coils are stuffed. Maybe the brushes ar about gone...they do wear out and after nearly 30 years...might just be gone.

When you turn your key a small current goes to the solenoid that fires a hefty contact (that's the noise you hear) thus switching current to the brushes. If all is well, current flows though the stater coils and that turns your engine.

You have 4 options.

1. Put up with it or...

2. When it happens again...put your car in 2nd and rock it back and forth a bit, this will move the starter motor rotor to a different location...then turn your key again...should start or...

3. As HMsports says...take it to a auto electrician and they'll check it over for you...may just need a new set of brushes or the stator might be totalled.

4. Buy a new starter motor....don't know how much they cost but a recon one vs a new one wouldn't be a hell of a lot of difference...and I'd always go for that piece of mind factor.

Good luck:classic:

[240znz]

Sorry big mistake...forget option 2...it won't work as the key needs to be on to actuate the starter cog onto the flywheel.

So if you tried that and it fires up you'll end up stalling.

[AxtellZ]

So, a friend has a couple of 280 starters from parts cars (gear-reduction i believe?) Anyone know if it's a direct bolt-on replacement? I *assume* so, but we all know what that gets you.. Thanks JA

[halz]

(you will need a friend to help you). Turn the key to the start position and hold it there. Assuming the engine has not turned over, your friend (or whoever isn't holding the key in the start position) gives the solenoid a tap with a spanner or heavy screwdriver. This can help to jolt the solenoid into life.

I've used this method on recalcitrant Corollas and Monaros, it should work on a 240Z. Of course its a pain in the backside but at least it will get you down to the auto parts shop (or your mate's house) for that replacement starter!