Club 80-90 Forums

Hello. Had an issue with the van not starting the other week when we were away. When I turned the key i got a click from the starter motor, but nothing else. Had the AA out, who wiggled the wires on the starter motor and it started fine. Had the same issue since and a wiggle sorts it until today.

Had a more detailed look and the big wire is connected ok (i assume), but the smaller wire had completely come out of it's spade connector. So I fitted a new spade to the wire and cleaned the contacts, but it's still not starting (just the click).

It's very hard to get to, but i've realised there's 2 spade-connection points on it, so not sure which one to connect to (if either!). I can't see any of this, only feel for it as it's beyond the actual engine bay, and the connectors are at the top of the motor, so can't see them when i get underneath.

Would appreciate any info on how this should be wired up. Thanks.

you could have two issues here, the switch ( ignition) and or the signal wire from it (which you have replaced the spade on)
firstly, it matters not which of the spades you connect to, they are both the same connection on the starter motor.
testing if it s the signal wire is simply a matter of putting a known 12v feed to that connection. if it spins the starter its the signal wire or the switch, but i suspect its more than likely the spade connetion you replaced isnt a good connection.

great, thanks Mocki... i suspect you're right that it's the spade connection, but good to narrow it down a bit first. I'll give it another go then.

Sorted!

You were totally right Mocki - dodgy spade connection. She's starting fine now.

Thanks again. This forum is great!