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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Midget starter problem

Hi all. Back to working on the midget ('79 1500) and running into some "issues". It seems that the starter went out so I replaced it. After installing the new starter, my problem was that the starter would not disengage. So I then replaced the starter relay figuring that would take care of the problem. I was wrong. The starter still will not disengage. I have had the starter in and out several times and am getting frustrated. I even tried popping the clutch to get it running but when I did that I got this awful grinding noise, which tells me the starter is constantly engaged with the flywheel. So off came the starter again to ensure the flywheel and starter were okay. No apparent damage.

Please HELP!!!
G Laird

Failing ignition switch?
Failing starter solenoid?

Probably the ignition switch as that's harder to replace.

R
Richard 1979 1500

The starter gear should disengage mechanically. IIRC there should be a shim between the starter body and the flywheel cover. Could it be missing or the wrong thickness?
Allan ('76 Midget 1500)

I tried the ignition switch and that didn't do anything eather.

Maybe the shim thickness though. I was very careful to ensure I put everything back together as it came apart but since it is a new starter I guess it is possible the original shim is incorrect for this starter.

Hmmm.

Anyone know how to check this?
G Laird

I've just looked at the Moss catalogue

http://www.moss-europe.co.uk/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=1360

and they list ten tooth and 9 tooth pinion barrels. Maybe you've got the wrong one? Anyone out there know how to check?
Allan ('76 Midget 1500)

you can use your fingers to count to ten :-)
Brad (Sprite IV 1380)

Assuming that you've still got them all after working on a Midget!
Allan ('76 Midget 1500)

Just got off the phone with Keith at Moss motors in Kalifornia, Commifornia, norte mexico, mexifornia... or whatever it's called these days.

Those of us who may have lost a digit or 2 working on our cars need not fret. He said it didn't matter whether it is a 9 or 10 tooth gear on the starter, either will work. He seems to think the problem is electrical and with the starter.

Time to take it out again I guess. Not sure how many times it's been in and out now. Oh well...
G Laird

I beg to differ with Keith @ Moss Motors, if the tooth pitch is the same for both 9 & 10 tooth the 10 tooth will have a larger diameter which could cause it to stick in the flywheel if your application requires a 9 tooth starter. If the diameters are the same then the 10 tooth will have a different pitch. Starter tooth pitch & diameter have to be correct for your flywheel.
SK Kowznofski

This thread was discussed between 01/03/2009 and 03/03/2009

MG Midget and Sprite Technical index

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