ignition switch or starter problem?? PLEASE HELP!

[911matt]

Hello, my car won't start any more. my problem started a month ago, when It would take two or three turns of the key before the starter engaged, then it progressed to 5 or 6 clockwise turns to get anything to happen, then two days ago, I turned that key 40 times and nothing. My battery is fine. I do here a slight clicking noise back at the starter when I turn the key. The body man that cut and welded my fenders two weeks ago, said the car tried to start itself when the key was in the ignition and "off". he had to turn it on, then off and remove the key to get the starter to stop spinning.!! I have another starter but am having a hard time getting that driver's side starter nut loose, so I thought, hey! a switch would be easier to change, maybe that's my problem!! what advice do any of you brothers have for me!!

thanks,

Matt
'77 911 w/ '84 3.2

[911pcars]

You can purchase another switch and try that. You can also purchase another starter motor and try that.

I like to recommend verifying something is wrong before replacing it. It usually takes more time, but it results in you learning more about your car and how things should work (if that's the type of person you are). It also avoids replacing parts that are still okay.

That said, you'll need a wiring diagram (probably available on PParts somewhere) to ID the solenoid circuit wires and an ohmmeter to measure continuity. Disconnect battery, then remove the wires from the switch. Test the switch terminals for continuity when the switch is in the "start" or "crank" position. From your symptoms, sounds like the switch might be bad, but this should verify it.

In addition, with the solenoid wires disconnected from the switch, you can touch these two together (battery connected) to bypass the switch and check solenoid operation.

Hope this helps,
Sherwood
http://members.rennlist.org/911pcars

[911matt]

Sherwood,

thanks for the good ideas. A friend already copied the wiring diagram for me, so I guess I'm on my way!

Matt

[jwernquist]

If it tried to start itself with the key in the off posistion, Usually i've seen that happen when the ignition switch goes bad!

If not i would guess it could be the starter or the wiring to it! Bad ground mabey?

[911mike]

Had the same problem. Ends up being, in my case anyway, the switch tumblers were sticking. I'd turn the key and nothing. Then the car started and I couldn't shut it off. Sprayed WD40 inside the tumblers, has been working like a champ for 6 months. Good luck.

[911matt]

MIke,

I tried the WD40, but nothing. did your starter make the clicking noise? seems like that might mean a bad starter in my case?


Matt

[techweenie]

This isn't the '75 Carrera I sold you, I take it?

I occasionally had to turn the key twice to start tht car. Usually, the fault is the "electrical portion" of the ignition switch. It's a fairly cheap part.

[911matt]

Bill,

No, this is my 77 that I have had for 5 years. I solved the problem tonight by bolting on another starter. the job was tougher because someone had put the 17 mm nut on the top of the starter and the barrel nut was on the lower transmission stud! I had to do a partial engine drop to get to that nut and use a thin wall socket because of minimal clearance between the starter housing. I sold the 75 carrera to a guy in Mexico south of Laredo TX. I regret it every time I look at the photos on my desktop. Oh well.

Starter Prob. solved--thanks for your help everyone.

Matt