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1.8D starter problem

Old 18-10-2009, 09:54 PM
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Stree
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Default 1.8D starter problem

Hello, first post here.
I have looked through the threads to see if this is covered, but can`t see what I need.
I have an escort 1999 endura 1.8D and the starter has always been slow to turn. I put this down to battery so now its got a new Meura heavy duty battery, well up to spec. but have still had to get the garage out to sart me some days ! They tested the battery, alternator and charging, all good........They suspect starter, maybe a field coil they say.
Looked on Ebay for another and the ones that correspond with the ID numbers and appearance of my starter are all for the Turbo........My question is, is the starter for the 1.8TD a different spec to the 1.8NA? What I am thinking is, if the TD has a lower compression then the starter will not need to be as powerful......But looks like mine may have been fitted with a Turbo starter instead of the right one..I have checked all connections and all good, inc earth straps.
Comments welcome !

Last edited by Stree; 18-10-2009 at 11:15 PM.
Old 19-10-2009, 08:27 AM
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tabetha
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Same starter both turbo and non turbo.
A problem I have found with these is the solenoid connection.
My dad's neighbour has just had this identical problem, slow turning etc, even with new battery and new alternator, both of which were not needed.
In his case someone had crimped a connector onto the solenoid feed wire, presumably due to being damaged or whatever, tracked it down to this having too high a resistance, the solenoid are VERY voltage sensitive, and if not enough there they don't hold firm against the contacts inside the solenoid when bridging the power terminals.
Anyway, cut off soldered on a connector, the engine nearly turned the car over, not literally but compared with before!!
That was 2 months ago and hasn't missed a beat since, this one had also been to 3 garages, and a auto sparky who said battery and alt, it's now running perfectly on the old stuff and he got his money back for the stuff that was fitted he didn't need.
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Old 19-10-2009, 09:24 AM
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Stree
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Thanks Tabetha,

That has clarified it greatly for me. and I can see now how the solenoid "throw" being weak would lead to reduced power to the starter motor. Sounds to me like that is the problem.
I will check out that connection before I resort to a new starter. I can get a brand new Lucas unit for Ł50 with a years ticket, so at least I have a fallback.
Thanks for a great response !
Old 20-10-2009, 09:18 AM
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Stree
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I have a choice now, Lucas or Unipart starter motor, any thoughts on either of these manufacturers? One better than the other?
Old 20-10-2009, 10:37 AM
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tabetha
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Either one will be fine, though you can repair your existing one easy, not worth the hassle most of the time for the small saving that some give though.
They suffer badly from brush wear so new brushes or a new brush box should sort it, but no warranty with DIY!!
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Old 20-10-2009, 08:00 PM
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sorry to hijack the thread but I'm having a similar problem with my 1.8D van-- I haven't got a lot of knowledge of this model and wondered if someone could describe or point out where to look? I know it could be the cable/starter (been replaced)/battery (Also new)/solenoid -- but not sure where to start looking!

Any help appreciated!
Old 20-10-2009, 09:36 PM
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these also suffer from bad coonection on battery leads they are best soldered up check gearbox earths have also seen starters with loose bolts [tonight focus taxi lol] dan the solenioid is part of the starter tab means the little wire that goes to the starter wifes endura ate 4 starters then we found the timing was slightly out and the pump had been wound right open
Old 20-10-2009, 10:28 PM
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Just to add to the confusiion:
I spoke with a guy today ( ebay trader) who I was going to buy a starter from.............
He asked if the starter was slower turning in colder temperature, which it is. Not a battery prob as thats new and has been checked anyway. He suggested wrong viscosity oil! Good thinking..... So bought some 5/40 oil today and a new filter. Will change tomorrow and see if it makes any difference....
Old 20-10-2009, 11:24 PM
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tabetha
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If the oil thickness is causing enough of a problem to prevent the starter turning fast enough, then you have more problems than just oil thickness.
I used 60 weight in mine due to 287,000 miles, and it spun into life first turn of the key even at -10, your car up to you, just don't be surprised if bodging this way bites you in the arse come winter time.
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Old 21-10-2009, 08:15 AM
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Stree
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How would it go wrong in winter? Because the oils is too thin?
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