74-914 Engine won't turn over

[Ron Norwood]

A couple of months ago I came across a 1974-914/1.8 that had been sitting on a lot for about 3 years. The engine had been overhauled(3 years ago) and the owner left the car with another mechanic to have some minor work done. Anyhow, I tried starting it the other day and got nothing but a click each time I turned the key. Thinking it may be the starter, I had it checked and rebuilt. Now when I turn the key I get a "thunk" and nothing else. I'll probably unbolt the starter to see if it spins. Any suggestions?

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Yes. Check Jim Thorusen's starter troubleshooting article. It's in the tech articles section of this very website.

--DD

[John Rogers]

I'd try turning the engine by HAND with the fan and the trans in neutral. Or put it in gear and try rolling the car a little. Remove the distrib cap to make it easier to see if the engine turns. If it does turn this way, batt voltage could be low or the cable/ connectors could be old/bad/etc or starter bad/etc. If it is seized, there are other posts here suggesting things to do.

[Thomas Caimano]

It's a ground problem- same thing happened to me. Replaced starter, wasn't better, so I shorted across the starter terminals and it worked fine. Now all I need is to find a cheap ground strap! Original is $ridiculous$!!

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Just check at your FLAPS. I found a ground strap (non-braided, but what the heck) for pretty darn cheap. I think it was "Exide" brand--they seem to make a lot of battery stuff--terminal cleaners, terminal clamps, the felt washers with anti-corrosion stuff in them, tie-downs, etc.

--DD