1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

Starter dead?

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Old Oct 1, 2013 | 01:00 AM
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Starter dead?

Just got my old FB back and the battery was having problems holding a charge until I removed the amp/subs/speaker set up that PO have put in. After that I havent had any problems.

I suspected the starter was getting weak but I think it just wasn't getting enough power before because once the subs were removed it sounded a lot better.

The starter on my FD went randomly on me as well without any good reason so im wondering if this is the same case as I went downstairs to go for a drive and it started up but the motor died on the first try since its cold out and then I tried once more and same thing then bam no starter. Not even making the clicks but seems to be drawing power when key is turned to start the car.

Been looking online but just wanted to confirm my suspicion.

Thanks guys.
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Old Oct 1, 2013 | 02:32 AM
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You won't believe me at first, but the battery cables need to be changed. Get some new 2 gauge for pos and neg and a new ground cable from engine to chassis. Cost was like 40 bucks. Improvement in cranking speed; priceless.
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Old Oct 2, 2013 | 02:57 AM
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Ill take a look at my cables tomorrow, I tried using the power from jumpers and my other car but still did the same thing.

Going to get a friend over to come bang it with a hammer or Im going to have to hit up some wreckers since the last AutoX event of the season is coming up! F***!!!!
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Old Oct 2, 2013 | 06:46 AM
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The starter might have a dead spot in the commutator as well. Try rolling the car a little bit and then try starting. Or try the hammer method if its the solenoid.
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Old Oct 2, 2013 | 12:22 PM
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Remove the starter and take it to a parts store. They will test it for free.
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Old Oct 12, 2013 | 03:27 AM
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So i replaced the starter tonight and it still does the same thing.
The moment I turn the key to start the car itself I lose all power in the car, I used the battery from our Honda Fit and when I put it back into the fit after this failure the car started fine so its not the battery.

Im assuming its bad wiring to the starter? The wiring is pretty iffy in the first place so im thinking of going out and buying new battery cables to see if that helps but so far I havent gotten anywhere.

Basically all I am getting is a turn of the key then a click and then NO POWER!!!! D:

If someone could chime in that would be awesome, insurance runs out soon and I dont have the funs to keep it insured for the winter right now. Need to get this fixed ASAP!!!!

Getting real frustrated......

Thanks again for your time guys!
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Old Oct 12, 2013 | 07:44 AM
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check the battery cables at the battery they need to be real clean, if its dropping power when you turn the key its a poor connection
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Old Oct 12, 2013 | 09:55 AM
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Unplug the starter solenoid and turn the key again. If you lose all power again it means your ignition switch is probably acting up.

Or it could simply be battery cables.
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Old Oct 12, 2013 | 04:11 PM
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+1 on cables. I had instances where the starter would either just click, weakly turnover, or just do nothing. Once I cleaned up the grounds and got some bigger cables running to it, no problems since!
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 12:50 AM
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From: Victoria B.C.
I replaced the cables and now the starters spinning!!!!
But the car isnt fully catching.........

FML!!!!!!
Will have a video and most likely a different thread
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