Thread: Alternator on the way out?

Originally Posted by Lumpster

When starting (or attempting to) I can hear the start Solinoid click in and out with every key turn, however the starter motor does not always engage. It often takes 5 or 6 turns to engage and start, one the starter motor actually turns the engine bursts into life without problem - sometimes she turns over and starts first time without issue.
What am I looking at first?

Sounds like the starter solenoid is on its way out. Your alternator just charges the battery it dosnt do anything till the engines running. I had the same problem in 2 rodeos, in the end it was pot luck or turn the key 30 times and hope you "catch" the solenoid. New starter on both and all good. If your concerned it's your battery or alternator just put another battery in and see if the symptoms continue. But sounds like your starters on its way out. I've had some rebuilt but not an LR one dunno what their worth.
Cheers Jim

Probably just a typical Lucas starter in its old age. You can sometimes improve the solenoid action by fitting a relay to the actuating wire, taking power directly from the battery. Check also that there is a robust earth cable between the battery and the engine. Better still would be to find a Bosch starter motor out of a slightly later vehicle and fit that instead.