re: E30 Cold start probs

["Sean Murphy" <scm1@xxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Michael,

>>>>>>>>SNIP>>>>>>>
In the mornings, or when i havent started the car for a
number of hours,
when i try to start the motor, there is a long delay
from when i turn
the key until the motor starts.
When it happens, i turn the key and it makes the same
noise as when you
turn the key to accessories, i.e the starter motor is
not turning over
either. Sometimes it wont start at all, but if i wipe
clean the +
battery terminal and try again, it usually works and
does start.
Strange thing is, once its started, i can start it no
problem for the
rest of the day, but in the morning of the next day, or
whenever, i will
usually have the problem again.
>>>>>>>>>END SNIP>>>>>

Things I would check.
(1) That 12v is getting to the starter solenoid when
the key is turned.
(2) If not, check that there is power coming from the
starter motor feed wire out of the ignition switch ie.
confirm the ignition switch is OK.
(3) Check the engine to chassis and battery neg to
chassis connections (remove, clean, refit).
(4) I am not sure whether there is a starter circuit
relay on your particular vehicle or not. Check the
manual and see if you can change it with another relay.
BE CAREFUL, not all relays work the same even though
they look the same!

It sounds to me like you either have a v.high
resistance connection in the starting circuit or that
your ignition switch is playing up.
I hope this helps a little.

Regards
Sean

http://homepages.tcp.co.uk/~scm1/bmw.htm

'93 E36 325i SE (24v VaNoS)
(E36 ///M3 next...)

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