intermitent starting

Most likely reason is an intermittent bad connection somewhere in the starter circuit. In my case (110) it was the earth strap between the engine and chassis, and, as a result, burnt contacts on the starter solenoid which continued to give trouble even after the original problem was fixed.

It is possible, but unlikely, that it is because the engine is abnormally hard to turn, and the usual reason for this is a coolant leak into a combustion chamber due to a leaking head gasket or a cracked head or block. In this case you would expect to see dropping coolant level (although the drop could be very small) and signs of oil or bubbling in the cooling system, and signs of water in the oil. But the problem is more likely to be the starter and its connections. JD

Thanks JD I Have just had another thought, two weeks ago the key snapped off in the ign switch and was replaced with a new item. Could it be a bad coonction in the switch?

Having replace the starter motor today I would have thought that just by renewal that the contacts would have been cleaned by friction?

Do you th>

G'day Simon.

by replacing the starter motor, you will only be removing one of the four connections between the battery positive and the starter motor. first lead from battery to solenoid, second lead solenoid to starter. if any of these connections are a little wonky, this would upset the operation of starter motor.

if any of the connections to the solenoid (ie. through the ignition barrel), are a little loose, this could cause similar probs.

Sam.

Wha?? I check mine every week. No wonder you get trouble with your motors! TonyB