Topic: Random Starting Problems
in Forum: C3 Engines
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I have a 1979 L82 4spd that occasionlly won't start. I've replaced the battery, had a bad cell, checked all the grounds and have started cleaning all the underhood connections. It usually occurs after the car has been driven for some time. Turn the key and nothing. All the interior lights are on and gauges work. No clicks, nothing.
At first I thought it was because I was starting with the A/c on and did test and found that I could reproduce the problem. Been avoiding the a/c since it needs a recharge anyway. It seemed the problem had all but disappeared until the past weekend when it happen again. I had been using the A/c on a very hot day, drove over an hour and stopped at a store, shut off a/c after about 5min retuned and nothing. Popped the hood and after about 15 to 20 min tried again to start iot and no problem.
Next day drove 2+ hours and didn't use A/C at all and it started every time and I stopped for gas and food.
Has anyone had anything like this happen?
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Try looking at the conector at the extension harness that goes to the starter. Clean if corroded. Check for voltage at starter terminal. If good I would say solinoid(starter going bad) or the starter itself.
Sounds exactly like what my 78 is doing. Try this next when it won't start, jump the battery and have someone tap the starter with a small hammer or large wrench while you turn the key. It works for me, I need a new starter 
cilrah 2008-07-22 16:47:32
It usually only happens after long drives when I stop to fill up before heading home. I turn the key and nothing but I have power for any other accessories.
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It's prolly the starter solenoid...a victim of heat soak. The A/C just makes it hotter under the hood, so it happens more frequently when you run the A/C.
Of course, first make sure all of the connections are nice and clean, and tight.
Then get ya a new solenoid and install it, or replace the starter, if that's easier for ya.
Be aware, tho...not all reman/new starters come with the solenoid, so if ya do buy a new starter, make sure to ask about the solenoid.
Of course, first make sure all of the connections are nice and clean, and tight.
Then get ya a new solenoid and install it, or replace the starter, if that's easier for ya.
Be aware, tho...not all reman/new starters come with the solenoid, so if ya do buy a new starter, make sure to ask about the solenoid.
Joel Adams
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in Forum: C3 Engines
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