starter spins but does not engage

[S_&_K]

As above really.

One day the van was fine (1.7 KY diesel) had been off for MOT and only came back with one bit of work required

However, when I tried to start her to move her off the drive the starter spun like a crazy thing but did not engage.

I have done the following so far:

1. Checked the voltage getting to the solenoid 11v - Which to me seems fine
2. removed the starter and checked the action - the cog flies up the shaft as you would expect when operating normally
3. hard wired the solenoid into the battery, bypassing the ignition system - it just spun like crazy but did not engage

Is the starter done in or is there something else I should be looking at?

Simon

[Oldiebut goodie]

Voltage should be high 12's 12.6v - 12.7v. Therin lies one problem. 11v is a very flat battery.

[marlinowner]

If jump starting or charging the battery won't work, try turning the engine manually and retrying starter in case there are some missing teeth on the flywheel starter ring.

[Si_P]

As one half of s & k (didn't for get my log in for this account at all!! ) I can confirm that the battery voltage is currently 12.2v.

The voltage across my temporary wire is 12.1v and the voltage via the ignition switch is 11v ish.

However, as stated the starter will not engage when directly wired to the battery. I have tried jumping off my other car with the same results lots of spin but no engagement...

Simon

[MidLifeCrisis]

Couple of things spring to mind;
1) If you whip the starter off again - you should be able to see the teeth of the flywheel that the starter would be engaging - that way you can confirm that they are sound (you might need a mirror to get a good look)
2) Also, while you're there - take a look at the bush that the starter spindle mounts into - make sure that it looks undamaged.
3) Finally - a thread on here recently concluded that the starter 'does' rotate slightly 'while' the solenoid engages the cog onto the flywheel - so it's 'possible' that the solenoid may not be functioning correctly even though you are seeing rotation of the starter ..... just a thought ....

[Oldiebut goodie]

With those voltages there seems to be a mixture of low battery and dodgy connections. 11v at the ignition switch doesn't seem right. Earths are favourites for checking.

[Si_P]

Thanks for the help so far.

I have checked the teeth on the fly and all seems good there.

The battery is new but has only been used for short hops to MOT center and quick fire ups so has not had a chance to charge I will be charging it tonight.

and finally the 11v is what I am getting at the solenoid spade terminal (from the ignition circuit) however, even when I hard wire the solenoid and get a clean 12v + the starter still spins without engaging.

Simon

[bigherb]

It could be the one way clutch on the starter has failed. If you take the starter off you should only be able to move the pinion one way without it turning the starter shaft.

[Si_P]

Well thanks to all of you for your hints and tips.

I tried every one but in the end a new starter was bought and fitted today and she turned over first time.

If any one has the know how and tools to recondition the old one it is free to collect.

Simon

[marlinowner]

My kitcar wouldn't turn over, charged the battery, jumped it, no joy. Took starter off, run on bench, worked fine. Bought starter on eBay (£4.99!) Fitted it, instant success.