Ignition problem
- Thread starter cablejak
- Start date
Checked
Jonesy161
Active Member
God forbid, Engine seized?
Ted
MB Enthusiast
- Joined
- Feb 26, 2004
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- Bourton on Dunsmore
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- Lexus RC300h F-Sport, Yamaha XVS 1100, Toyota C-HR GR sport
When it clicks there should be 12 volts on the main starter terminal (top of the solenoid) and 12 volts on the bottom terminal next to the starter body. There should also be 12 volts on the small solenoid wire. This should cause the starter to turn.
No 12v on the main terminal - the main supply (thick wire) has a problem.
No 12v to the small solenoid wire -there is a problem with the low current starter side (ignition switch/authorisation etc)
No 12v to the bottom terminal but 12v to the others, the solenoid is faulty.
Measure the voltages at the starter - that is with the negative probe on the starter body as a faulty engine to chassis earth will mess up the readings.
Check the engine to chassis earth by putting a voltmeter between a good clean engine connection and a good clean chassis connection. You should see no more then .5 volt.
You can also put a jump lead between the engine and chassis to eliminate the engine/chassis earth.
If all the above are ok, then suspect the starter, or a remote possibility the engine has seized (I have seen this).
Let us know your findings and we can advise further.
Good luck with this
If you don’t have a voltmeter, you can get an idea with a testlight. It’s what I would use.
No 12v on the main terminal - the main supply (thick wire) has a problem.
No 12v to the small solenoid wire -there is a problem with the low current starter side (ignition switch/authorisation etc)
No 12v to the bottom terminal but 12v to the others, the solenoid is faulty.
Measure the voltages at the starter - that is with the negative probe on the starter body as a faulty engine to chassis earth will mess up the readings.
Check the engine to chassis earth by putting a voltmeter between a good clean engine connection and a good clean chassis connection. You should see no more then .5 volt.
You can also put a jump lead between the engine and chassis to eliminate the engine/chassis earth.
If all the above are ok, then suspect the starter, or a remote possibility the engine has seized (I have seen this).
Let us know your findings and we can advise further.
Good luck with this
If you don’t have a voltmeter, you can get an idea with a testlight. It’s what I would use.
