Just picked up a 77 280Z. not starting... need help please!

[Guest Philanthr0py]

Hey guys, I just picked up a 77 280z for FREE! After having it towed back to my house, it is now sitting in the garage. The battery was dead but I charged it back to full. Now when I try to start it, all i hear is a "click." Can anyone give me some advice on how to diagnose what's wrong with the engine so I get it running at least? any info will help..... thanks

[denny411]

1) bad starter

2) bad solenoid

3) bad battery

4) corroded connection

[Guest Philanthr0py]

all the lights work and the electrical system seems to be fine. it's just not cranking when i turn the key...?

[Kevin Shasteen]

Originally posted by denny411:

1) bad starter

2) bad solenoid

3) bad battery

4) corroded connection

Clean the battery cable connections first. If they have universal cable connectors-then take them apart & ensure the cable, cable connectors along w/the battery terminals are all clean: make sure the negative cable has a clean connection. 90% of all electrical problems are caused by a bad ground. Inspect your cables visually for cracks or discolorations. If cracks or discolorations exist-replace that cable.

 

Then if the starter still clicks when the key is turned over-you probably have a bad starter.

 

If this is the case-dont go off half cocked & autimatically purchase a starter. The engine could be locked up. Instead-obtain a breaker bar & a socket that fits the harmonic balancer bolt. Take the transmission out of gear & then try to turn the engine over w/the socket & breaker bar.

 

If the engine turns by hand then the engine is not locked up and your problem is most likely the starter/solenoid....now you can go buy your rebuilt starter.

 

If your engine starter still clicks after you have replaced the starter.....you may have a bad ignition switch. The starter is easier to replace than an ignition switch, and probably about the same price as a rebuilt starter; try the starter first.

 

Kevin,

(Yea,Still an Inliner)

[denny411]

1)If the starter is bad the solenoid may kick out the bendix but the starter won`t turn.

 

2) If the solenoid is bad, it will click but not throw out the bendix,but this could also be caused by a few dead cells in the battery or a corroded connection not allowing enough amperage to operate the starter, but still enough to operate lights.

[DAW]

Ditto the above. My money would be on the corrosion on the now relatively loose nut (12mm) on the starter strap that connects directly to either the starter motor/solenoid or the battery cable/solenoid. While you're there, check the solenoid primary/ign switch wire connection. DAW