Starting problems

[MaddyJ]

We seem to always have this problem over winter when we leave Dudley for a few weeks. However, since having a new radio fitted this year we have had a catalogue of failed starts. Numerous RAC call outs. We've had a new battery fitted, new alternator and now a new starter motor. We've had Dudley checked for what could be causing a drain from the battery and there is only a very small drain from the radio and clock, certainly not enough to flatten the battery in a week.

Last week we had the new starter motor fitted, took him for a long drive on Sunday, then yesterday went to start him and no joy. The last couple of times we've noticed that the leisure battery is also loosing power. We have bought but not fitted yet, an isolation switch, however, we really do need to get to the bottom of the problem. Both batteries are now on charge overnight and we'll see what tomorrow brings.

Has anyone had a similar situation, or any suggestions as to what might be causing the problem.
Thank you
Alex

[dazzzer1]

have you checked the earth strap on the gear box, i had similar symptoms, easy check is to connect a jump lead between the engine casing and the body of the van, i went from a convenient clean bit of engine to the tow ball.

[billy739]

get a volt meter , check the voltage ON THE BACK OF THE ALTERNATOR and then ACROSS THE BATTERY TERMONALS both readings should be the same

[MaddyJ]

Thank you both, yes your suggestions had been checked. It looks as if the leisure battery was still trying to charge from the main battery when the engine was switched off and both batteries were trying to remain level. We've had a new relay fitted and just having the wiring checked to make sure that everything works as it should.......fingers crossed

[dannyjwood]

Did you get this sorted out in the end?

[MaddyJ]

Thank you for asking, we think we might have solved it but the next few weeks will tell. The leisure battery was still charging from the main battery even when the engine was switched off. We've had a new relay and the electrics now come off the leisure battery (before they came off the main battery but the leisure battery was topping up the main battery. It started ok for me yesterday and it hasn't been driven for a week so that's a good sign.