Intermittent starting problem November 11, 2021, 07:46:16 pm I checked the starter motor, and no problems. Took my 1990 Chevy small block to Autozone to check both battery and alternator and both checked good. Yet on some mornings she will not start. What!? It is as though the battery is flat. I have to use my Noco GB70 to get her running. This is my only vehicle. Once I get her started, the rest of the day she starts just fine. What am I missing here? Starter solenoid? I know the starter switch is good. Neutral safety swith? Injecters? Ahhhh, the trials of a novice/non-professional mechanic.
Re: Intermittant starting problem Reply #1 – November 11, 2021, 09:18:38 pm Hi Mind; If the only difference between slow cranking, and a successful start is the Lithium jump starter, then likely the battery is on its last legs. But it could be at the connection to the battery. Corrosion can develop between the clamp and post on either the grounded negative or +12v terminal, or both. Often you clamp the jump starter on the outside of the clamps, and it bypasses the thin layer of corrosion. It warms up, the alternator pumps some power through, and because of the heat developed improves the connection enough for ok starting during the day, until the next morning. Cleaning the inside of the clamps, and outside of the posts; I use a wire brush meant for cleaning copper plumbing, and some Scotchbrite. https://www.supplyhouse.com/Oatey-31327-1-2-Copper-Fitting-Brush-w-Plastic-Handle?gclid=CjwKCAiAm7OMBhAQEiwArvGi3Ptu8V-fS03uZMnep7aLkmdr6zo1LUCsI-vuNgWAOrhARnwCeFTfZBoCM7YQAvD_BwE Electricity in a battery is provided by a chemical reaction, exactly at the time you need current. Cold batteries don't react as quick as when they were newer, or when they are warm. That is why the rating of 'cold cranking amps' matters. You didn't say how old your battery is, but I've found that 6-7 years to be about average. RonB 2 Likes
Re: Intermittant starting problem Reply #2 – November 12, 2021, 08:06:33 am Thanks Ron. There is no rust or anything else at the terminals and the battery checked as known good by a local auto parts store.... The battery is about 3 yrs old. 1 Likes
Re: Intermittant starting problem Reply #3 – November 12, 2021, 08:28:04 am Hi Mind,Could there possibly something being left on in the motorhome that is drawing down the engine battery in the evening? I recall that recently you were asking about a problem with the truck dome lights; perhaps your problem is related to that switch? On my rig, the cab lights are powered by the truck battery.Steve K
Re: Intermittent starting problem Reply #4 – November 12, 2021, 11:48:53 am Following up on Steve’s suggestion, you might use a multimeter to measure the voltage in the battery first thing in the morning. And perhaps post the results.
Re: Intermittent starting problem Reply #5 – November 12, 2021, 04:54:55 pm Quote from: Steve K. - November 12, 2021, 08:28:04 amHi Mind,Could there possibly something being left on in the motorhome that is drawing down the engine battery in the evening? I recall that recently you were asking about a problem with the truck dome lights; perhaps your problem is related to that switch? On my rig, the cab lights are powered by the truck battery.Steve KI will check. The dome light is still not working.... 1 Likes
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