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MG MGB Technical - My car won't start!

I've just stepped out to my '74 GT and there is nothing but the clicking of a relay when I turn the key. It bump starts OK and the headlamps look alright, so I'm boldly assuming starter motor. Before I order a new one, should I check anything else, and does anyone have a view on scrapyard versus rebuilt (I just replaced the alternator on Tuesday so I feel like I've spent enough this week).

Many thanks,

Steve
Steve Postins

Battery? battery connections?
Ken R
Ken Rich

Good point, and I'll check them later - once the rain has stopped.

Thanks

Steve
Steve Postins

Check the wires attached to the starter. One of mine had broken inside the insulator attached to the crimp causing intermittent starting. Mike
Mike Zaffarano

Steve, I just went through all that. If the battery connections are good, and the connections are good at the starter, I would say it's the starter. I paid 160 u.s. dollars. It starts great, now. I would go with a rebuilt one, also. I also replaced the relay, but I don't think I needed to. Hope this helps. Phil
Phil Chamberlain

Check the engine earthing strap. There is usually one on the left side front engine mounting and/or there could be one attached to one of the bell housing bolts. Without an earthing strap, the starter won't work nas it needs such a high current.
Just a thought.
Mike
Mike Howlett

Steve, beside a loose wire 50/50 shot either the starter or the solenoid, which is on the starter. Replace both unless you have a bad solenoid with a very good starter.
Doug
Doug Gordon

Many thanks for all the comments.

Having had a chance to get under the car this morning, I traced the wiring from the relay to the starter and found it hanging free under the solenoid. Popped it back on its spade connector and all's well with the world again. That's the easiest fix for a long while!

Regards,

Steve
Steve

This thread was discussed between 17/01/2002 and 19/01/2002

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