Hey everybody,

About 3 weeks ago, I got into my FD and it would turn over, but wouldn't start. This wasn't really abnormal, so I typically connected a battery charger to help start it, and everything was fine after that. However, even with the charger, this time I had no luck. What I was experiencing was a mixture of the engine turning over, and the sound of a grinding starter (NOT the typical clicking from a weak ground).

I proceeded to check the starter solenoid, perform the deflooding procedure (just in case), change the plugs, and clean the grounds. After trying a few more times, I managed to get the FD started, drove it around for a bit, and went back home. After shutting it off, I was unable to get it started again.

A couple of days ago I switched out the battery with a new one, and today I replaced the starter with a starter I knew was in working condition. I also checked the grounds once again, cleaned them, and checked for any wire damage, rusting, etc. Absolutely no visible damage from what I could see. However, now when I attempt to start the FD, all I hear is the starter grinding. The engine doesn't even turn over.

I have not experienced anything that would suggest a compression issue. I do need to take a closer look at the flywheel when I get back underneath the car. I also need to check the voltage and resistance of the wiring.

I've heard about grinding issues in 2nd gens, but not really in 3rd. Have any of you experienced this issue with your FD?


-Sheena

 

Have u tried to see if you can turn the engine with a socket wrench on the eshaft pulley, if u can at least u know the engine isnt siezed. Or try rolling the car back while in gear to spin the flywheel, maybe its got some bad/broken teeth in the spot its sitting at? Iono just trying to throw some stuff out there

 

Update:

So after my thorough investigation and replacement of the battery and starter, I was still having the same problem.

I ran out of time and decided to just tow the FD to my local rotary shop (Rotary Performance) since I need 5th gear rebuilt, and a new tune anyway.

Turns out...it WAS a grounding issue...All of the grounds were clean, making good contact, etc., just as I specified before...However...It turns out when the engine bay was painted, the main ground to the body was also painted over, and the paint started to insulate current -_-

Needless to say...That spot was cleared, and my FD starts up just fine now.

The paint being an issue honestly never popped into my head...*sigh*...Lesson learned.

 

at least it was quick and easy...could have been a lot worse and a lot more expensive