I have a 93 rx7fd. It was having some battery draining issues so I put a new battery in it. After I did this I tried to start and it seemed when I have my foot on the clutch and ignition all the way over it wants to start but all my dash lights go off once the ignition is all the way over trying to start so the battery just dies. If the dash lights aren’t on when the key is all the way over it won’t start. I’ve uploaded a video of the problem. Yes I’m aware it sounds like the battery is dying but this video is to show what’s going on with it. I’ve had it hooked up to jumper cables to try and start it and nothing happens but the same as in the video.

 

The starter isn't getting anything at all. Most likely the rubber bumper for the clutch switch came apart.

Search some on this, it's been covered in-depth. It's an easy fix if that's the case, just need to get a new bumper of some kind on the clutch pedal so the switch engages.

Dale

 

looks like my rubber bumper is still there

 

Have you checked your main connection to the starter and the main ground? Looks like something big isn't connected to me.

 

I have not. This issue started after replacing the battery so it’s a little odd

 

I only ask because I had the positive come loose on my starter before. I was a bit surprised. I just noticed it as I was adding and replacing ground wires.

 

There's a big thread on the "click-click-start" problem you may want to read up on. From the video it doesn't sound like the starter is getting anything at all, if it's trying to start or something you would hear the solenoid on the starter click.

When you turn the key to Start, 12v goes down the wire to the clutch switch, then to the security system relay, then to the small wire on the starter.

Also there are 2 clutch switches, Make sure you are looking at the right one, it will have heavier gauge wiring going to it.

This is just a straight forward electrical problem - get a multimeter and go through and test. May also want to be certain you have good voltage on the battery that it's not undercharged and the battery terminals are clean and on tight.

Dale

 

So any luck?

 

I checked both cables they are fine. I checked my battery again for low ratings but still have nothing

 

Are you getting power at the starter?

 

what’s the easiest way to find that out

 

With a multimeter. Check when you have somebody trying to start it.

Exactly as Dale described. Start in the engine bay, work through the clutch and then down to the starter.

Or start at the starter, if you get 12V there, then everything between should be in order.

 

If you haven't used a multimeter before it's pretty straight forward. Here's a good video -


You can get them for under $5 at Harbor Freight, many parts stores have them cheap too. For basic 12v troubleshooting you don't need some crazy fancy one.

Dale

 

Update on this issue:

previous owner zip tied the ignition switch and when I took it out the whole thing fell apart. This was my fix hopefully it helps others with similar issues

 

Yep, that will cause that problem big time! Nice find!

Dale