I have a K plate escort van as my runaround but I have a couple of problems:

A, I wont always start, when you turn the key the lights on the dash dim a bit and nothing happens.... sometimes there is a 1 second delay between turning the key and the starter turning. Am i correct in thinking the solenoid on tthe starter? And i bet that means i have to change the starter aswell?

B: The gearstick has sooo much play in it its like stiring porridge... Im pretty sure its not supposed to be that bad, what could it be? the linkage? do they have a bush or something prone to breaking?

Any help would be great! As Using the capri daily is burning a hole in my pocket!

Many Thanks

Adam