Hi, I have an '88 non-turbo that's now having trouble starting. When you turn the key there's a single 'click' (electrical comes on) and then nothing. Take the key out and repeat process once or twice and the car will eventually turn over and start right up. New battery, not a new starter, but it's been replaced before... can't tell if this is an ignition problem or starter. Thoughts? The moment the engine turns over, it starts right up. Fairly new problem and getting worse each time it's driven.

I did do some searches in the search forums threads, but didn't find much (feel free to point me in the right direction if it's already covered and I'm missing it). I'm aware of the clutch switch and don't think that's the issue either.

Thanks to all.

Cheers,
Logan

 

I would suggest bypassing the clutch safety switch and seeing if that solves your starting problem.

 

Appreciate the suggestion, will do that and post results. Might as well rule it out.

Cheers,
Logan

 

https://www.rx7club.com/2nd-generati...ystery-896013/

This thread probably is relevant to you. With age and oxidation the wiring isnt as good as it once was and isnt delivering enough current to pull up the solenoid. My vert started exhibiting the same symptoms around 85k and this fixed it. Post 21 has a picture of the jumper that comes on cars that dont have the starter cut relay used be the security system. In my case i used the voltage from that to pull up a relay coming right off the battery, never had the click, click, click, click, click, start anymore.

 

This is great, reading all over that thread and seems very similar. Thanks!

 

If the relay is your problem, than you could always buy a replacement from Rockauto (https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...119147&jsn=537) for about $15. The relay is the same as what's listed for a 1991 Ford Escort 1.9L L4 AC condenser fan motor relay p/n Airtex/Wells WMA 1R1801. I replaced my relay at 355k miles thinking it was the problem, but it turned out to be high resistance in the clutch safety switch.