Club 80-90 Forums

I had a strange problem at the weekend driving down to a small festival near Brighton.
Cruising along with no problem, we decided to stop at a services to use the toilet - turns out despite all the signs its not "services" its only a garage with NO toilets!
Went to start engine- nothing - Battery and oil light were on, but turn the key nothing?
All the electrical things seemed to be working ok, but the engine would not start
Checked the engine seemed ok, not siezed or anything, just starter motor not kicking in.
Managed to get a jump start from a very nice gentleman delivering sandwiches

Van started hurrah -

we drove to Festival without problems

As soon I turned off the engine - boom - totally dead again :sadface:

When the ignition was turned I could hear a click by the glove compartment, I rummaged around with the fuses, and then noticed a two replays on top. The middle one had a very large red wire going to it. Thinking this may be important to the starter motor I pulled out the relay. To test if it was the correct relay, I turned the ignition to see if I could hear the lack of click -

The engine only b**** STARTED!!!!!!!

Any way I put the relay back, enjoyed the amazing weather at the festival and then drove back several days later without incident.

I guess there is something loose, where should I start looking?

thanks

I would start at the starter motor and check all the connections. More than likely that one has corroded and is loose. Also check the battery connections are clean and secure.

Clicky sound in the glove box will be the "Load reduction relay"
It turns off the wipers, headlights, heated screen etc so that the battery doesnt have to supply extra current.
Usual problem with not turning over are as above, plus checking the earths to the engine or the ignition switch.