Re: 1991 Spider Veloce Starter Problem - help

["McCarty, Richard" <RMcCarty@domain.elided>]

I'm not sure about British cars, but on all the continental cars I've messed
with, the ignition switch supplies 12 V ( or 6 in a old VW ) to the smaller
(#61? #31? #31b ?) terminal on the solenoid. The reason that there is no
relay is that the solenoid IS a relay (or more technically, a contactor).
The solenoid forces the starter drive pinion out against the flywheel as
well as switching on the starter motor. One old gorilla technique for
starting / diagnosing starting problems is to remove the spade connector at
the solenoid from the ignition switch and (very carefully) jam a large
insulated screwdriver ( a BFIS ? ) between the cable from the battery and
the ignition terminal. Make sure the car is in neutral and the wheels
chocked and be very, very careful not to short the battery directly to
ground. If the car starts using the screwdriver then the problem is not with
the battery & starter itself and probably with the ignition switch / wiring.

Good Luck,
Rich M
72 GTV
67 Gilera 124 ( will run this spring )
66 Ducati Mach I 
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