RE: starter problems again

[Hirsch <Catenary@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Paul Irvine wrote:
 =

> The Alfetta has failed to start several times now over
> the past 6 months. It only happens after the car has
> been running for some time (an hour or so). It seems to
> happen on the warmer days. Turning the key results in nothing
> - I mean nothing. The power is on, fuel pump is running etc.
> When I go to start there is no click, no crank, no dimming of
> idiot lights...nothing.

Sounds like an ignition switch problem. The Spica system
puts a pretty good load on the ignition switch, since the
starter solenoid AND the cold-start soleniod must be energized.
The situation described by Rex Brown is:

   "The basic problem ... is that the ignition switch has to
   energize the starter solenoid and the cold start solenoid.
   After a few years the contacts in the ignition switch get
   crusty and the poor ol' ignition switch is lucky to energize
   one of these solenoids, let alone both..."
   =

Paul, when you had the starter problems last time, didn't you
install a relay in the starter circuit? Did you replace the
ignition switch then? Anyway, the Rex's article is at:

   http://www.catenary.com/victor/isaluti
 =

To read it select "Feature stories," "Electrical," and
"When Things Click but Nothing Cranks."

Rich Hirsch
'87 Milano
'78 Spider
'67 Duetto
'66 Sprint GTV <- my Catdaddy car
Editor, i Saluti, St Louis AROC
Website: http://www.catenary.com/victor/isaluti

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