996 startup problem

[J9000]

Just happened for a couple of days. Put the key in and start the car. Nothing happen. Radio, head lights are ok. I have to turn if off and on a few times before the car can start and it's getting worst (have to try more times before it starts).

Doesn't seem to be the battery because it's almost new. What should I look for? Starter motor or the switch. I changed the switch myself about a year ago.

[bladeboy]

If you just get a click when you try to start it I recon its probably the starter motor.

Whats happening is that the solanoid that fires the starter shaft out to engage to through the engine over is not working properly.

[J9000]

well, it started with something like running for 5 seconds and stalled. after a day or two, it simply wouldn't start.

No click. nothing happened just the lights are on and stereo are sining my favorite songs..

Need help!

[PIC]

well,  it started with something like running for 5 seconds and stalled. after a day or two, it simply wouldn't start.

No click.  nothing happened just the lights are on and stereo are sining my favorite songs..

Need help!

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Starting System

The starting system consists of an electric starter motor and a starter solenoid. When you turn the ignition key, the starter motor spins the engine a few revolutions so that the combustion process can start. It takes a powerful motor to spin a cold engine. The starter motor must overcome:

All of the internal friction caused by the piston rings

The compression pressure of any cylinder(s) that happens to be in the compression stroke

The energy needed to open and close valves with the camshaft

All of the "other" things directly attached to the engine, like the water pump, oil pump, alternator, etc.

Because so much energy is needed and because a car uses a 12-volt electrical system, hundreds of amps of electricity must flow into the starter motor. The starter solenoid is essentially a large electronic switch that can handle that much current. When you turn the ignition key, it activates the solenoid to power the motor. :cursing: Sorry, sound like you need a new one!

[slbates]

I would not rule out the ignition switch. If you don't hear the solenoid click, then I would try the switch first. My first ignition switch failure had the same symptoms you mention...everything worked but the starter. Loren kindly sent me info on how to change the switch. My second failure was just a guess on my part. The A/C blower quit working so I checked all fuses, etc. had power to the compressor, etc. I changed the ignition switch and everything started working properly. I disassembled the old switch and sure enough spotted the failure. I keep a spare handy!

[J9000]

yes slbates.. you are right about the ignition switch. I sent it to Bob @ Mountain View. He put a new one in and seems working so far.

This is the second time the ignition switch failed. Lucky enough, it's a $16 - $35 part. I think I need to keep a dozen of spare ones. (wel maybe one)

Wish I knew, I can do this in 10 mins but I was afraid it was the fuel system or starter motor.

Edited March 24, 2005 by J9000