Need Help
Thread Starter
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Joined: Sep 2005
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From: kennewick wa.
Need Help
I have a 1985 rx-7 with a 12a and when you turn the key it just turn over but if you pull start it it will start. I don't know where to start to fix the problem.
mightymouse6980
mightymouse6980
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 440
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From: Jonesborough, TN
Welcome to the board!
There could be several things causing your problem. First, check your compression. If it is too low, your starter may not be able to spin the engine fast enought to start whereas pull/push starting spins the engine faster than the starter building more compression to start. Probably the only real fix here is a rebuild. You could try the ATF treatment or other decarbonizing treatments but those are probably only a temp. fix.
Another definate and easier and cheaper problem could be with your ignition switch. The fuel pump is activated through the ignition switch and it is possible that the switch is not sending current to the fuel pump when you try to start it with the starter. A way to test this is to run current directly to the fuel pump bypassing the ig. switch. If it then starts with the starter you know where your problem is. Replace the ig. switch.
Another possibility is spark. Test to see if you have spark while you are cranking with the key. this could also be an ignition switch but could also be caused by other parts of the ignition system.
I would check my compression first to make sure it is at least 90 or higher. If it is below 90 that is most likely your problem. Remember that a standard compression tester cannot be used in the normal manner. You must clamp the pressure relieve valve open and watch the bouncing gauge while you crank the engine with the starter. The gauge needle should give consistant even bounces above 90psi.
Good luck!!
There could be several things causing your problem. First, check your compression. If it is too low, your starter may not be able to spin the engine fast enought to start whereas pull/push starting spins the engine faster than the starter building more compression to start. Probably the only real fix here is a rebuild. You could try the ATF treatment or other decarbonizing treatments but those are probably only a temp. fix.
Another definate and easier and cheaper problem could be with your ignition switch. The fuel pump is activated through the ignition switch and it is possible that the switch is not sending current to the fuel pump when you try to start it with the starter. A way to test this is to run current directly to the fuel pump bypassing the ig. switch. If it then starts with the starter you know where your problem is. Replace the ig. switch.
Another possibility is spark. Test to see if you have spark while you are cranking with the key. this could also be an ignition switch but could also be caused by other parts of the ignition system.
I would check my compression first to make sure it is at least 90 or higher. If it is below 90 that is most likely your problem. Remember that a standard compression tester cannot be used in the normal manner. You must clamp the pressure relieve valve open and watch the bouncing gauge while you crank the engine with the starter. The gauge needle should give consistant even bounces above 90psi.
Good luck!!
