Intermittent Starting Problem

[ltcjmramos]

Hi Guys

Hoping someone can give me some ideas on what to check for an intermittent starting problem I've experienced twice over the past two months. Both times, I was out for a spirited drive, shut down the car for a short time (less than 5 minutes), and when I went to start it up, no go. The voltage would drop right off so much that the odometer would reset. After 3-4 tries at starting, it catches. It's a weak catch, but does start up. If it sits for something like a lunch break, no problem starting.

Voltage meter shows 12.6V at rest, 13.7V charging. The car sits about a week at a time with a Porsche cigarette lighter battery maintainer plugged in. No issue with first start after sitting.

Any help/advice appreciated.

[Loren]

How old is your battery?

Have you had the specific gravity of each cell tested?

Have you had the battery removed from the car and load tested?

[ltcjmramos]

Original battery, I believe. I'll need to check that. Mfg date 6/03. I'm the 3rd owner, and bought the car with 12K on it. Car now has 29K on it. I haven't replaced the battery, and doubt if it was replaced prior to my purchase.

No tests yet.

Frankly, with the battery as old as it is, I might just go ahead and buy a new one. Any recommendations for a replacement unit?

How old is your battery?

Have you had the specific gravity of each cell tested?

Have you had the battery removed from the car and load tested?

Edited October 12, 2009 by ltcjmramos

[Loren]

Most of the popular ones are fine.

Size 48 for a perfect fit.

Make sure it has the vent tube connector so you can connect to the existing vent.

I have Autozone's Duralast (with vent tube and line), others have used Costco's Kirkland, and Interstate.

They all last about 4-5 years so I personally do not think the brand matters.

There is a several page Battery thread here

[ltcjmramos]

Thanks, bought and installed the Duralast.

Edited October 17, 2009 by ltcjmramos