Re: 1991 Spider Veloce Starter Problem - help

["skippatnode" <skippatnode@domain.elided>]

Date: Thu, 09 Jan 2003 09:28:30 -0700
From: "Tim Czajka" <timczajka@domain.elided>
Subject: 1991 Spider Veloce Starter Problem - help

>>Hello - a relative of mine is having trouble with his 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider
Veloce.  The engine will not turn over.  The battery is in good charge and
partial turn of the ignition switch lights up all the dash lights.  But upon
further turning of the key - nothing.  No cranking of the starter and no
clicking of the solenoid/switch.

Any ideas or experience related to this problem would be appreciated.  I own
a 1972 Series III Land Rover and LR owners often do battle with the dark
prince (Lucas) - do you guys have a similar adversary?

Thanks - Tim Czajka

Date: Thu, 09 Jan 2003 10:56:48 -0600
From: "Jason Hagen" <hagen_jason1@domain.elided>
Subject: Re: 1991 Spider Veloce Starter Problem - help

I believe the ignition switch actually completes the ground, rather than
supplying any voltage.
- -Jason Hagen<<

No---the ignition switch does not complete the ground!!
On every Alfa I have ever messed with, the positive battery cable (12V)
connects to the big terminal on the starter amd there other wire(s) also
connect.  This is where the voltage gets distributed to the entire car.
One place this voltage goes is to the ignition switch.  In the "start"
position it then directs the voltage back to the small connector on the
solonoid causing the solonoid to energize.
The solonoid does 2 things:  1.  It mechanically operates a lever that engages
the starter drive with the flywheel.  2.  At the end of it's travel, it closes
a hefty set of contacts that send power to the starter motor causing it to
run.
So, if the starter is running, the solonoid is working.
Check for proper voltage at both solonoid terminals.  If ok, try a light tap
on the starter with a hammer while the ignition switch is in the "start"
position.  When it starts, take the starter and have it rebuilt.
Skip
67 Duetto
Norfolk Va
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