I finally got back to the starter problem on my 3. The starter was
staying engaged after I let up on the dash button was the problem. I
had replaced the solenoid, guess what? Not only did the new solenoid
not fix the problem, it also failed in under two weeks. So I put the
old solenoid back in and started tracing the wiring.
I had earlier ruled out the dash button as the problem because I had
jumped the starter at the solenoid switch and it continued to spin
after the jump wire was disconnected. But after the new solenoid
also allowed the starter to spin like crazy, I checked the voltage at
the side wire at the solenoid and there was 12+ volts without the
button pushed.
So I pulled the instrument panel and started running wires. Also
pulled the instruments and cleaned gauges inside and out. You are
right Art, it makes a great difference. I even like the Lucas amp
meter now.
Anyway, in tracing the wiring and cleaning up problems from the PO's
I came to the conclusion that the heater fan was wired through the
dash button starter switch somehow. For an hour or so, I could have
a heater fan or a stable starter, but not both. Finally figured out
that the fan wire coming to the dashbutton starter was the ground
from the starter. Found a more suitable ground for it and everything
is working fine.
That's a dandy problem to leave for the next owner if you want to
give them fits. The variable power to the fan through the rheostat
is not enough to power the solenoid, but it's enough to keep the
solenoid engaged after the dash button engages it. Also it's
intermittent depending on whether the fan rheostat is on or off.
Anyway, it's been an adventure today, but I now have a dependable
starter with no extra features and a heater fan that blows much
better than it used to. Still have no windshield and the chill in
the air is starting to make me think about frostbite when I go for a
spin. Hope to have a windshield back on Monday if NOS delivers, then
can put the top back up, side curtains on and see how this is going
to work for cold weather driving.
Cheers,
Geezer
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