BMrider

Ford Sierra Sapphire 2.0 DOHC manual 1989

Trying to get engine to crank

Fitted brand new battery 72Ah tested and fully charged

On trying to crank engine nothing!

Off load volts on battery 12.8V

Turn key drop to 10.8V and then recovers

There is a noise from alternator when turning ignition key and if I place my hand on the alternator a vibration can be felt

any suggestions please!


Thanks

RichieST

iTrader: (2)

Maybe the alternator has siezed? Take all the belts off and see if the pulleys turn freely. Or even try turning the engine over by hand.

BMrider

Thanks but the engine / alternator can be turned by hand ok,

RichieST

iTrader: (2)

Have you checked the voltage at the starter while cranking? If it has 12v then drops right off it when cranking it would suggest an earth problem.

BMrider

OK, just run the battery over to auto electrician, although its brand new you don't know how long these flat post batteries have sat on the shelves unsold, however it checked out fine on a drop test.


The problems sorted though, it was the starter / solenoid, shorting main power feed to solenoid connection a few times coxed it into life, its spinning over on the key like a gud-un now, now onto the next problem!


Thanks for all the help