www.jec.org.uk

My car has been off the road for a while so I can become financially ready for a major job on my car.
However I thought I best start it now and again to make sure everything runs ok.
It's been 2 weeks since I last started it and now when I turn the key it just clatters and won't start!! A bit like a ratchet going hell for leather.

Do you think it might be the starter motor or something else?

thx,

Gordon - you didn't think that because you've got a subframe to change the car would have pity on you and behave itself, did you? I have just got mine back on the road after 2 years - it started with 'taking it off the road for a couple of weeks to do some work on it'! And it broke down the day after getting an MOT!

But anyway, I'd say the problem is a weak battery. The clattering is the starter trying to mesh with the ring but not having enough oomph. Give the battery a charge and you should be OK

Hope I'm right and it's nothing more dramatic!

HM

thx for the tip I'll give it a try.

What I've noticed with some cars is you need to use them regular.
As soon as you leave them for a while things go wrong.

Just before starting her up with the newly charged battery, check both the engine to subframe AND subframe to body earth straps are in good condition.
Don't rush into starter motor heroics unless you are sure that your battery is in good condition and holding a full charge.
You'r not the only one in the doldrums - my Aristocat has just got a crack from a stone impact in one of its expensive split screens - rather spoilt a nice evening drive. I'm not looking forward to taking the screen apart
Now thats happened because I used it, wouldn't have happened if I left her in a nice safe garage. You just can't win.
Robin.

Thaks for your help guys.
It started first time.