Topic: 71 Starter Problem
in Forum: C3 Electrical
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Former Member
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Niceville, FL - USA
Joined: 2/16/2004
Posts: 11
Vette(s): 71 T-top; small block
I am barely a shadetree mechanic but am trying to troubleshoot a starting problem.
When starting my 71 T-top, I turn the key to the start position, but get nothing except a click (like with a discharged battery) each time I turn the key on. With each attempt the ammeter guage shows a full discharge, -40. Yet after 3 or 4, maybe 5, successive attempts the engine starts right up. After the engine starts the ammeter shows full charge, +40, but comes back to just right of center after about 10 minutes.
How can I tell if the problem is the battery (year old), the ignition switch (orginal) or the starter (original)?
Thanks
When starting my 71 T-top, I turn the key to the start position, but get nothing except a click (like with a discharged battery) each time I turn the key on. With each attempt the ammeter guage shows a full discharge, -40. Yet after 3 or 4, maybe 5, successive attempts the engine starts right up. After the engine starts the ammeter shows full charge, +40, but comes back to just right of center after about 10 minutes.
How can I tell if the problem is the battery (year old), the ignition switch (orginal) or the starter (original)?
Thanks
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Hot Springs, AR - USA
Joined: 4/24/2004
Posts: 3236
Vette(s): 69 Conv #'s match 427, TKO-600/.64, 3.36HD-Posi, HT, T/T, PS, PB, PW, SP, Leather, Comp XE264HR & Roller Rockers & Lifters, Air-Gap RPM intake, Holley St Av 770 VS, MSD 6AL+Dist+Blaster SS, K&N, Jet-Hot Hooker Side-Pipes, Steeroids, Al Rad, Spal Fans
nicevilledave said: I am barely a shadetree mechanic but am trying to troubleshoot a starting problem. When starting my 71 T-top, I turn the key to the start position, but get nothing except a click (like with a discharged battery) each time I turn the key on. With each attempt the ammeter guage shows a full discharge, -40. Yet after 3 or 4, maybe 5, successive attempts the engine starts right up. After the engine starts the ammeter shows full charge, +40, but comes back to just right of center after about 10 minutes. How can I tell if the problem is the battery (year old), the ignition switch (orginal) or the starter (original)? Thanks |
this happened to me last month... wound up being a dead cell.. but i wouldnt think it would happen with a 1yr batt. get the battery tested first just in case..
That -40 on the amp gauge inclines me to think there is a high amp draw from a bad connection or bad starter.Both can be intermittant. 

Former Member
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Niceville, FL - USA
Joined: 2/16/2004
Posts: 11
Vette(s): 71 T-top; small block
It was the battery. Fortunately a simple fix. Thanks for the help.
in Forum: C3 Electrical
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