Odd Problem Associated with Starter

[Cubist]

Hi All,

I took my S Type (3.0L SE Auto) for a longish run today, about 60 miles with no stops en route. Unfortunately the first person I was due to visit was out so I returned to the car after only a couple of minutes. When I turned the key the starter motor tried to turn but did not appear to have the muscle to turn the engine, no dull click from the front end to suggest a dead battery and all instrumentation fine. Tried again and same result. Initially fearing that the starter motor was jammed/stuck but unwilling at that point to give the possibility more than a passing thought I tried to start the car again, but this time, and for no good reason other than perhaps instinct I took my foot off the brake - counter intuitive for a Automatic Gearbox driver - and the car started; albeit a little sluggishly.

This has happened once before but it was some time ago and the only difference between that occasion and this latest is that the first time I had only driven the car about 10 miles.

Anyone suffered similar experiences or know of any reason why the starter motor may appear to seize temporarily?

[Montana5]

I've had this once or twice, at first I thought it was because I hadn't pushed far enough down on Brake Pedal, but later on I reckoned it was the Gear Lever had just moved ever so slightly to the left of the Park position slot.

Doug.

[jeff1954]

How old is your battery, this time of the year ie dark mornings headlights on low temp etc can be a drain even on a good battery My experience is about five years and it will need replacing.

Jeff