Everything on these vehicles is so easy to handle and designed fool-proof - except for one thing
While the engine is running, you are still able to engage the starter motor, thus creating a big sparkle in the gearbox. I know, this is a bit silly and should not happen, but believe me, it can (e.g. while taking a carload full of friends home after a party). Needless to say that I am worried this could cost me dearly if it happens more than once or twice.
Is there any way to prevent this? I remember that my old camper used to have a relay switch which would only allow the leisure battery to be charged when the engine was running, in order to protect the main car battery. I am thinking of putting something similar into my Liteace (2.0 TD, H-Reg.). Can anyone advise me how to do it?
Many thanks,
Holger - (#1830) Holger Laux, 7 Jan 02

Holger
Far be it for me to preach but you can do a whole host of silly things, like putting petrol in a diesel and vice-versa, without thinking. It doesn't just apply to a Townace either. It's all about concentration, which will lapse after a bit to drink. The solution is make a concerted effort to think carefully about what you are doing and avoid distractions (easier said than done). No matter how many failsafes you build into a device there is always room for human error.
Ian
Now where's that return key er ..... - (#1831) Ian Dunse, 7 Jan 02

Far be it for me to preach but you can do a whole host of silly things, like putting petrol in a diesel and vice-versa, without thinking. It doesn't just apply to a Townace either. It's all about concentration, which will lapse after a bit to drink. The solution is make a concerted effort to think carefully about what you are doing and avoid distractions (easier said than done). No matter how many failsafes you build into a device there is always room for human error.
Yes, but with things like you cannot pull out the key if the autobox is not on Parking or you cannot get out of Parking without pressing the break, not to mention the Beeeeeep if you forget to switch off the lights - I would have expected this to be built in. It reminds me a bit of a Morris Minor and its unsynchronised 1st gear (krrrpfffpong!!!)
BTW, I was completely sober when this happened, but they made so much noise there in the back that I forgot the engine was already running.
Holger - (#1832) Holger Laux, 7 Jan 02

Yeah, I know what you're saying, I've done the same thing on other cars. Can't remember if I had had a drink or not though.
Ian - (#1833) Ian Dunse, 7 Jan 02

the dashboard warning lights on the townace appear to work the same as on my previous car. the lights come on for test purposes until the engine is running. this was done with a relay fed from the alternator, basically in reverse to the battery light. if you find this relay, (good luck!), you could probably take a feed off this in line with the starter signal from the key. this would prevent the starter from engaging if the engine/alternator is running. - (#1879) eddie arrowsmith, 15 Jan 02