Intermittent Starting Problems!?

[pi quattro]

I will try to be brief!

I had intermittent starting problems. Sometimes felt like it would catch or try to start as I let go of the key - pointed to the ignition switch.

Replaced ignition switch. Turned over but failing ancient battery gave up. So replaced with brand new battery.

Turned over alot fasterdidn't didnt start??

Hooked up modern car with jump leads and started pretty much right away.

I am going through a period of "positive intermittency" and I have an idea that the problem could be to do with a bad earth? (as per wiki)

Any suggestions as to where to look next? and any advice on how to replace the earth strap between gearbox and chassis greatly appreciated!

Cheers

E D I T: 1.9 petrol btw!

[pi quattro]

No one?

[Aidan]

check
battery connections
fully charged battery (just cos it's new doesn't mean it's good)

where did you attach the jump leads from the running car ?

[pi quattro]

I was attaching jump leads to the battery of the running car( I now know this isn't a good thing to do)

I found the earth strap from engine to gearbox removed it and replaced it with a new one, albeit a few inches longer, and things seem to be working alot better. Starts on the button.

It was my intention to replace other earth straps, but I can't seem to find any? I have seen diagrams and pics with a strap to the left of the engine as looked at from behind, but I can't see one on mine! (1.9 petrol pierburg carb)

The oil light was lighting dimly on start up and lighting dimly for a while at first. Now it isn't coming on much at all. I know this is pointing again to a bad earth so going to look at the crown of earths on passenger side behind the row of fuses.

So where else should I look for earth straps to replace?

Battery seems to be in good condition and is getting at least 13.7-9 volts when driving. I know it should be over 14. But replacing the earth strap didn't improve this at all? Perhaps the voltage regulator might need attention?