Thread: Wiring problem :(

Hopefully someone can offer some guidance here.

On the rubbish run today I was suddenly aware of a rampant clicking coming from behind the console or centre console of the Stage 1 V8. The brake light started flickering on then stayed on but flickered inconsistently when the clicking occurred. Not trusting things I left the old boy running while I unloaded the rubbish and it was just as well because when I got home, I stopped outside, did some stuff then went to put the trailer away. I turned the key on, the oil pressure alarm did its usual thing (screaming in my ear) and the petrol pump clicked happily, but when I turned the key to start the engine - nothing. No solenoid click or anything.

When the brake light came on the first thing I checked was whether I had any brakes but that seems to be fine. The brakes are working.

Oh, and I should mention that previously I have had issues with the starter not turning over. Solenoid click but no starter. Usually I can roll it and clunk it into gear which seems to free things up(?), or maybe its just a coincidence. I assumed it was the starter getting stuck. The only thing I have done that is different is that I squirted the connections around the solenoid and starter with WD40 in case there was a bad connection.

After a couple of attempts I got the crank handle out. The engine started fine under the crank and it seems to run without drama.

I checked the fuses, none blown.

Sooo, any suggestions as where I might start looking?

Cheers
Alan

Mike, thanks

Originally Posted by mike 90 RR

Ok ... I'll answer it this way ... I don't know about the dash of a Stage 1 ... So the clicking "sounds as tho" there is a relay playing up behind there (check your brake lights are working)

Will do. Problem is I really suck when it comes to electrics. I wouldn't know a relay if it bit me.

Originally Posted by mike 90 RR

The flickering brake light is either ... Faulty relay or a Master cylinder failing (internal)

Well, that'd just be really annoying if it is the Master cylinder

On the other hand I think if that were the case then the brake should probably have faded when I used them yesterday, but they didn't, they were good and that was with 600kg of rubbish on the trailer.

Originally Posted by mike 90 RR

The Starter motor problem is just a case of .... install a new one ... cause when the motor is cold // It works ... and when it's warm // it doesn't // Next time give the starter motor a hit with the end of a hammer to prove the fault

It's morning now so I'll give that a shot.

Originally Posted by mike 90 RR

Lastly ... All the above dramas could be the result of Lousy, Old , worn out Positive leads & Earth straps ... So have a muck around with some jumper leads

That was the first thing I thought of. I might have a crawl around under the car and follow the earth straps from the starter, etc. I just happen to have a new 12V battery I can jump in to the 24V battery bank. Just gotta be careful not to fry it.

Thanks
Alan