Please diagnose start issue

Sting · Post by **Sting** » 06 Jun 2005, 14:06

96 85 160k

Recently, and about 1 out of 4 starts, when I crank the ignition I get a "flat" cranking sound. If I turn the ignition back, the engine cranks right over. I have no CEL light and all maintenance is up to date including a battery only one year old. I seem to have plenty of cranking amps and alt holds charge. Plugs have about 25k but wires are orignal. Could it be starter? How would I diagnose?

Thanks in advance-

White850Turbo · Post by **White850Turbo** » 07 Jun 2005, 05:56

You have the original wires that came with the car?!?! If so, that could very well be the problem. Also, turbo'd cars go through spark plugs rather quickly, so 25k is kinda high mileage for plugs.

Jot · Post by **Jot** » 07 Jun 2005, 07:04

When you say "flat cranking" Do you mean no turning of the starter? If so the solenoid located on the starter probably has burned contacts as they carry very high current. It is a replacable part.

Sting · Post by **Sting** » 08 Jun 2005, 12:21

By "flat cranking" I mean there is a starting sound but it is not the usual he he he he...start it's more of a falt whining heeeeeeee sound then I take the key back to the O position and forward again and it starts right up. I know its hard to diagnose by sound but the best i can do to describe.

Jot · Post by **Jot** » 08 Jun 2005, 12:33

The solenoid is part of the bendix system which moves the small gear of the starting motor to engage with the flywheel gear . Most likely the mechanism needs lubrication but possible replacement.This will be a lot cheaper than a new starter

VolvoFreak · Post by **VolvoFreak** » 08 Jun 2005, 13:20

I agree - starter solenoid is bad

Guest · Post by **Guest** » 08 Jun 2005, 13:31

where is selonoid on 850? have a pic perhaps? how easy to clean or replace?

thanks again you guys are rad!

Jot · Post by **Jot** » 08 Jun 2005, 13:50

As mentioned it is attached to the starter and is about the size of a film canister. the starter is on the front (radiator) side of the engine.

Sting · Post by **Sting** » 08 Jun 2005, 14:24

thanks! can you tell me more specifically where the starter is? I am familar with most other parts on this car. Is it below and left near radiatir or other side near battery?

Quondo · Post by **Quondo** » 22 Jun 2005, 07:52

You may actually want to look at the ignition coil first, rather than the starter. I was having the same problem on my '93 850 GLT and since replacing the ignition coil, it's been starting like a dream!! Good Luck!