My 240Z doesn't crank - help!

[reethij]

I cleaned all the terminals, still nothing.

Then I shorted the two screws on the starter solenoid, the car started right up.

Now I wonder what it could be, still the wierd clicking noise from the passenger side kick panel. Did a through location of the clicking noise and determined it was from one of the relay's , I pulled it out.

Here is the part number 25230 89914 and the next line has MR2-101. I did a quick search and found nothing, except a google search revealed it could be an A/C relay. It has 3 swithches.

Do any of you guys know, if this is what the problem could be? Also where do I order one from?

Thanks in advance.

[ezzzzzzz]

With another set of hands, use a multimeter to check for 12 volts (from the ignition) at the solenoid when the key is rotated to the start position. I can't recall the color code/connection and I'm at work but someone can identify the wire and connection to the solenoid or look in the FSM. If there's 12 volts when in the start position then the solenoid is bad. If there's no 12 volts then you'll need to further investigate the ignition circuit to determine why.

[reethij]

I've tried searching the forum, and I've tried googling - all I can find is that this might be some kind of AC relay. I think it might be faulty and need replacing - does anyone know what it is and where I can find one?

(The second picture is where I took the part from - the passenger kick area).

Thanks!

[Capt Mark]

I had the exact same problem and it turned out the relay was fine, the problem was the starter. I replaced the starter and it has given me a problem

since.

Capt Mark

[beandip]

reread # 14 posting . Check to see if there is 12v to the starter when you turn the key to the start position . If you manually can bridge the contacts , and it spins the engine the starter is good . Look to the switch or the wireing from the switch to the starter .

[EricB]

The same's litterally just happened to me...

I'd been suspecting the starter solenoid was on its way out for some time on my car...

Of course it had to happen at work (60 miles from home).

Thankfully for $75 and change + $16 next day air I've got a new Hitachi starter coming up from MSA... I may just change the battery at the same time as well...

We'll see.

-e

[Datsun_Mike]

I cleaned all the terminals, still nothing.

Then I shorted the two screws on the starter solenoid, the car started right up.

Now I wonder what it could be, still the wierd clicking noise from the passenger side kick panel. Did a through location of the clicking noise and determined it was from one of the relay's , I pulled it out.

Here is the part number 25230 89914 and the next line has MR2-101. I did a quick search and found nothing, except a google search revealed it could be an A/C relay. It has 3 swithches.

Do any of you guys know, if this is what the problem could be? Also where do I order one from?

Thanks in advance.

"Then I shorted the two screws on the starter solenoid, the car started right up."

Shorted 2 screws? Whats that! I have the same exact problem! Brand new starter(manual starter) though(Just bought it 2hrs ago and install 1hr ago). When I turn the key I get nothing. No crank at all what so ever. Mine is a 73 240Z. I am also doing a AT to 4Spd conversion at this time so I might've forgotten something along the way....did I? Everything was in perfect working order before the swap.

[kenz240z]

Hi Reethi, I'm not sure what the relay in your picture is for. My '73 FSM is packed up waiting for me to move, maybe another '73 owner can help?

There are several relays on the passenger side kick panel, including one for accessories, one for the rear window defroster, one for the horn, and a couple that tie into the starter/voltage regulator/electric fuel pump. It is normal for one (or more) of these relays to click when the key is turned.

As already suggested, clean the battery terminals and electrical connections at the starter. Check for loose connections at the steering column and behind the dash.

[Mat M]

Is your car an automatic? Is there a safety neutral switch in the '73s? My 71s don't have one, but they are 4 speeds.

[Ksteve]

Hi Reethi,

I have a 73 and was having this same problem. It turned out to be the fusable link connected to the starter. It is a short 3" wire that plugs into the wiring harness with a plastic connector. Try bridging around this wire with a 12g wire from the connector to the terminal on the starter. If this is the problem it should then crank fine.

You can pick up a new one at any auto parts store, I beleive it is either a 14 or 16 guage. Just cut the wire off the old connector and soldier the new one on, or you can probably order one with the OEM connector from Motorsport Auto.

If you have already tried the previous suggestions of checking the battery charge and cleaning and tightening the terminal connetions, I would bet this is your problem.

Hope this helps.

Steve

[Datsun_Mike]

Reethi isn't the one that needs help. I am... Reethi already got his car started. But i'll try those thingd though. But like I said...everything was in perfect working order before I did the Auto to 4spd swapped.

[Datsun_Mike]

here are some pix...Did I hook it up right? If I did than what is wrong? Oh and can I kill the starter by dropping the positive battery cable on the copper part of the starter(Man..talk about firework)?