Trouble starting?

[robjuge]

I'm having a weird problem. This happens sometimes and sometimes it doesn't. 99 V8. I have to turn the key sometimes as long as 6 or 7 seconds before the thing will start.

I replaced it with a new optima red top, and it still does it. No trouble codes, and once its running, it keeps running (except a couple of times when it died on me)

Thanks.

[Günter]

all 'earth-contacts' to the engine OK ?! So no 'drop on currend' wile cranking ?

[robjuge]

that's a good idea. I checked the battery ground. I've got a service manual at home, so I'll check their locations when I get there. Thanks for the idea, that sounds like it might be it.

[Günter]

sometimes there is mentioned in the forum that the Lotus-ECM cuts off injectors and power, if the current is to low -so just measure the voltage wile cranking and key in 'start' position. If it falls into the 11volts or even lower and you already have an fully charged battery there is something seriously wrong...

[robjuge]

Checked all the grounds, they are solid. That last part sounds a bit scary. Seriously wrong. Like ECU seriously wrong? or engine seriously wrong? Oh brother

[Günter]

no, just meant 'voltage to the ECM' could be wrong... but if you say it is all grounded well ....who knows.. .

On the other hand -you're not the only one who mentioned 'long cranking' time for his car.

[robjuge]

Whew. Cool. That scared me a bit for a second. I'm already having issues with the damn exhaust... whoever owned it has some nice stainless pipes installed... unfortunately they won't pass emissions. There's even a receipt that says "install loaner cats and mufflers for emissions test, then reinstall high flow stainless catalysts".. I was scratching my head for a bit there.

Thanks for the help, electrical stuff I can handle. I can just check the wiring diagram to make sure everything is getting the proper voltage and ground. I've gotten to the ECU before so it should be too much trouble. There could very well be a loose end somewhere in the system.

[redshift]

Have just started to get a similar problem.

But I have noticed that when it fires quickly you can hear that the started is turning noticeably faster then when it is reluctant.

So it looks like an intermittent earth problem. Where is the primary earth post for the starter circuit or are there more than one that could be involved?

[mike_sekinger]

Hi Pete,

The starter has it´s own wiring ´loom´ and you can trace this back to the battery and power relay.

The starter speed could also be affected by the battery condition - we are having a cold spell which could highlight a battery that is not in top shape.

Cheers,

Mike S

[redshift]

Thanks Mike,

Its not the weather, it started a couple of weeks ago (27°), did yesterday (12°) and this morning (6°) was totally perfect....

So its quite random. Will have a look around the loom, probably something isnt tight.

[rogerch]

One of things on my list is to install a beefy earth cable direct from the battery to the starter motor bell housing bolt.