hi,when i turn the key there is just a click. so i try again and just does one click. this can happen betweeen 7 to 10 times and then it will just start . it has slowly been getting worse and am worried one day it just wont start. can anyone help please , i want to fix it before it breaks for good. i have a superextra 2td 93.

- (#1914) andy, 20 Jun 05 14:30

Sounds like the dreaded voltage drop. When you turn the key you apply 12ish volts, via a couple of switches in the gearbox, to the solenoid on the back of the starter, which closes and applies 12+volts from the battery to the starter motor. Over time, the voltage to the solenoid starts to drop, and the solenoid doesn't close completely. The solutions include cleaning the switches in the gearbox, and (my favourite) fitting a relay to take the 12v from the ignition switch and use it to switch 12v from e.g. the glowplugs onto the solenoid. When fitted to my Townie SuperExtra 4x4 it cured the problem instantly and permanently. In the meantime, a gentle tap with a hammer on the starter motor while the key is turned is often enough to get the motor turning.

Well documented in Ace Answers.

- (#1914) Tom, 20 Jun 05 16:04