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Topic: 71 Starter Problem

in Forum: C3 Electrical


71 Starter Problem

Posted: 6/27/04 9:52am Message 1 of 7
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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


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71 Starter Problem

Posted: 6/27/04 10:24am Message 2 of 7
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KERNERSVILLE, NC - USA
Joined: 1/13/2004
Posts: 1355
Vette(s): 1968 L-71 convertible
I've had that happen with somethying as simple as a loose battery connection.
You can also have the battery tested at almost any parts store.


71 Starter Problem

Posted: 6/27/04 12:06pm Message 3 of 7
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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..


71 Starter Problem

Posted: 6/28/04 1:56pm Message 4 of 7
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CUYAHOGA FALLS, OH - USA
Joined: 12/2/2003
Posts: 6424
Vette(s): 1975 C3 Red, T-Tops, Black Interior. All I need is time and money! Getting there!
IF the battery is good, check the cables and the starter. But I would look at the battery first.


71 Starter Problem

Posted: 6/28/04 2:52pm Message 5 of 7
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Joined: 3/22/2004
Posts: 179
Vette(s): 1982 COLLECTOR EDITION
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. |idea|


71 Starter Problem

Posted: 6/28/04 4:20pm Message 6 of 7
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KERNERSVILLE, NC - USA
Joined: 1/13/2004
Posts: 1355
Vette(s): 1968 L-71 convertible
All things considered, it's still a 31 year old starter |smokin|


71 Starter Problem

Posted: 6/29/04 8:59am Message 7 of 7
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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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