perlfather

I am really puzzled. Occasionally it takes 2 or 3 turns of the key to getting the starter going. The other times there is nothing. I changed the ignition switch (a real pain), changed the starter motor and checked (cleaned) the battery connections. Any ideas what else it could be.
1991 C4

Turbohead

I had that problem with a rebuilt starter. once I changed to a new one it was fine.

Elliot

Gus

perlfather

Thank you. When the key is turned I hear nothing indicating that there is some intermittent electrical connection problem. I will eventually look at the starter motor and solenoid.

Rocket Rob

Have you checked the electrical connections at the starter and the starter ground? Maybe they have some corrosion and need to be cleaned and tightened.

perlfather

Thanks. Good idea. Yes, this was done when the starter was replaced.

jevvy

If the solenoid is not making a noise then you are not getting enough volts to activate it. You need to work backwards from starter to ignition switch looking for where the volts drop on the yellow wire while trying to crank.

Sounds like its the low power side of the starter circuit that is faulty (yellow wire) so it is unlikely that the fat +ve and -ve cables are at fault.

Search online for voltage drop testing techniques.

Good luck.

robt964

Securely lift the rear of the car so that you can get under it - double check the transmission is in neutral. Get under the rear of the car and with a pair of pliers and bridge the solenoid terminal and the main 12v lead. If the engine spins over then your issue is upstream of here.