I'm having trouble with a starter motor on a Citroen AX (1.4 diesel). I've read through the archives for this group and found a lot of useful information on what to look for, but the problem remains unfixed.
The starting problem is intermittent. Sometimes, I turn the ignition key, hear a click noise, but nothing else. No mechanical noise, and nothing seem to move or turn.
If I rock the car a little in gear, the car will start no problem.
About a month ago, a new solenoid was fitted and brushes replaced.
Today, I had a look at obvious things : I checked the conditions of the battery terminals, ground connection from battery to car. I pulled the manifold from above the exhaust, tried to pull the exhaust back (to get at the starter) but could not pull one of the engine mounting studs.
There are supposed to be three nuts holding the starter motor in place, there were only two. One of these was completely loose, so I tightened that as I thought any movement on the starter motor itself may be causing some mechanical resistance.
As I say, the solenoid was replaced and the cable contacts attached to the solenoid unit look clean and tight (all very unscientific, yes).
So here's a summary of where I'm stuck :
- Is it possible to test the starter motor in situ ?
- If it is, how ?
- If not, any ideas how to remove the stud bolt from the engine mounting (so that I can pull the exhaust, and remove the starter).
I'm running out of hills to park my car on.
Well, thanks for any guidance.
s.